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March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month is observed throughout January, dedicated to raising awareness about birth defects and supporting research. Join the movement to promote healthy pregnancies, advocate for families, and contribute to vital research efforts.
Want to sponsor March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month? Learn how
Expected March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month Deals
Throughout January, March of Dimes partners with numerous brands and retailers to raise crucial funds and awareness. Look for opportunities to donate at checkout with retailers like Kroger and Walmart, or purchase specially marked products from brands like Pampers, where a portion of sales supports the cause. Many local businesses also host fundraising events or offer donation matching programs. We will update this page with confirmed live campaigns as January approaches, but you can always visit the official March of Dimes website for direct donation options and event listings.
Platform Guide for March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #BirthDefectsPreventionMonth. Share personal stories or educational content about healthy pregnancies.
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #MarchOfDimes. Highlight corporate social responsibility initiatives and workplace wellness programs supporting maternal health.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #BirthDefectsPreventionMonth. Share actionable tips for healthy pregnancies and retweet updates from the March of Dimes.
March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month Hero
Dr. Jonas Salk
History of March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month
The March of Dimes is a non-profit organization that has been assisting pregnant women for over eight decades. It supports the health of all mothers and babies, aids research, leads programs, and educates young families on these matters. It is a collaborative effort between the March of Dimes and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (C.D.C.).
President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who contracted polio in 1921, initially founded the March of Dimes to combat polio. At first, the foundation’s focus was to fund a polio vaccine, and once this was successful, the focus shifted to the prevention of birth defects and infant mortality. Almost 3,100 local chapters that raise funds and deliver aid were subsequently set up. In 1958, the focus shifted again when the organization ventured into funding genetics research and establishing birth defect treatment centers in hospitals across the country. Dr. Virginia Apgar, an obstetrical anesthesiologist, also known for the famous Apgar Score, joined the March of the Dimes as Vice President for Medical Affairs during this period. The Apgar Score is a method of ascertaining the physical condition of newborns right at birth. Dr. Apgar also took a keen interest in premature births and brought attention to them as early as 1960.
Another significant change in goals arrived when the organization introduced its walk-a-thon fundraising events. These walking events became popular, and WalkAmerica turned into a successful fundraising event. The first walk-a-thon was held in the U.S. in February 1969, in York. The March of Dimes organization has a long and interesting history. Initially known as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis until the early 2000s, the organization’s formal name today is the March of Dimes Foundation.
March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month timeline
President Roosevelt establishes the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis.
To empower women as primary caregivers, Elaine Whitelaw, the vice president of March of Dimes, creates the women's division.
The organization is renamed the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation.
The March of Dimes extends its mission globally through the formation of a Global Programs Department.
Pre-term birth is the leading cause of death for children the world over, therefore, research and prevention of premature birth is the primary focus of the organization.
March of Dimes Foundation becomes the formal name of the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis.
How Businesses Can Celebrate March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month
Local businesses can participate in March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month by hosting educational workshops on prenatal health for employees and customers, or by organizing fundraising events. Restaurants can offer a special ‘Healthy Start’ menu item with a portion of proceeds benefiting the March of Dimes. Retailers can promote prenatal vitamins and baby care products, offering discounts and sharing information on healthy pregnancy practices. Consider a donation match program for employee contributions to the cause throughout January.
March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month FAQs
When is March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month?
In 2027, this vital observance will again take place throughout January, offering another opportunity to educate the public on preventing birth defects. The month-long campaign provides extensive resources for expectant parents.
How common are birth defects?
Globally, birth defects are a leading cause of infant mortality and long-term disability, impacting millions of families. The March of Dimes continues its work to reduce this prevalence through research and education.
What is the March of Dimes?
Today, the March of Dimes funds research, provides educational programs, and advocates for policies that support maternal and infant health. Their mission is to ensure every baby has a healthy start in life.
What are some common birth defects?
These conditions can range from mild to severe and often require specialized medical care. The March of Dimes provides support and resources for families navigating these challenges, emphasizing early detection and intervention.
How to Observe March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month
Spread the word
Help generate engagement and awareness. A good way to do so is by posting on social media.
Watch videos
Watch videos or listen to podcasts that cover a wide range of topics. These could include the maternal risk factors of having a baby with a heart defect, tips for preventing infections during pregnancy, and more.
Distribute information
The C.D.C. and the National Birth Defects Prevention Network have free promotional materials and other resources that are available online. Why not print and distribute them?
5 Facts About Birth Defects
Birth defects are common
Every year, one in 33 newborns is diagnosed with a birth defect.
Undetected defects
Many birth defects are not discovered right at birth.
Prognosis
There are tests, like ultrasounds and amniocentesis, that detect birth defects such as spina bifida, heart defects, or Down Syndrome before birth.
Other causes of birth defects
Some major causes of birth defects include genetic issues, chromosomal problems, exposure to harmful radiation and chemicals, infections during pregnancy, and low-quality food.
Prevention
The mother can take some important steps before and during pregnancy that can help prevent birth defects.
Why March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month is Important
Children are future
This observance and the support this month provides are crucial. They are essential for encouraging parents to choose the best for their babies.
Easily accessible information
Information is key! There are many readily available resources and toolkits that make it easy to share information.
Supportive networks
Learn more about birth defects and their causes and symptoms. By doing so, you can offer more support to parents whose babies are affected.
Social Media Tips for March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month
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