- Categories:
- Health
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- Awareness
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- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every July
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National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month runs throughout July, dedicated to shedding light on orofacial clefts and other craniofacial conditions. This observance aims to improve understanding, support affected individuals, and promote prevention efforts. Participate in educational events, share personal stories, and advocate for comprehensive care.
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Expected National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month Deals
Throughout July, National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month inspires a range of fundraising and support initiatives rather than traditional deals. Organizations like the Cleft Palate Foundation and ACPA Family Services partner with corporations for donation drives and awareness campaigns. Expect retailers like CVS Health or Walgreens to feature roundup-at-checkout options, while brands such as Johnson & Johnson (through their global health initiatives) may highlight their support for children’s health. Local businesses might host benefit events or donate a portion of sales to craniofacial care centers. We will update this page with confirmed live campaigns as July approaches, encouraging direct contributions to support research and patient services.
Platform Guide for National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #CleftCraniofacialAwareness. Share stories of resilience and resources for families.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #CleftCraniofacialAwareness. Join discussions on prevention, treatment, and support for affected individuals.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #CleftCraniofacialAwareness. Post infographics, personal journeys, and highlight medical advancements.
National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month Hero
Dr. John M. Converse
History of National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month
Orofacial clefts and other craniofacial conditions have negative effects on children´s ability to feed and their language development. These children might be at increased risk for a greater number of ear infections, hearing issues, and problems with their teeth. Because of the costs associated with the treatment of orofacial clefts, improving the health of these children is an important public health goal.
There are many centers of diagnosis all over the world that are working to better understand the preventable causes of clefts and craniofacial defects. It is also important to know how these conditions affect children and their families, by focusing on risk factors, health care service use, access to care, quality of life, health outcomes, and management and treatment of these conditions.
To help reduce the chances of having a baby with an orofacial cleft or other craniofacial condition health care providers must encourage patients who are thinking about becoming pregnant to commit to a healthy lifestyle. Among certain healthy habits, we have: control diabetes, quit smoking, exercise regularly, practice yoga, etc. before becoming pregnant. Moreover, health care providers should also work with prospective parents to make informed decisions about medical treatment during pregnancy. This condition can occur in the first three months of pregnancy. Therefore, steps before becoming pregnant are essential for the health of the baby.
National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month timeline
For the first time, a cleft lip is closed successfully in China.
Without an anesthetic this operation is extremely painful and difficult, however, the first successful operation takes place this year.
Roux publishes the first satisfactory results in an operation.
This Congress is held in Houston, Texas.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month
Local businesses can show support for National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month by hosting fundraising events or dedicating a portion of their July sales to a relevant charity like Smile Train or the Children’s Craniofacial Association. Dental and orthodontic practices can offer free consultations or educational workshops on oral health for children with craniofacial conditions. Pharmacies might create informative displays or promote products that aid in feeding or care for infants with clefts, while also offering donation opportunities at checkout.
National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month FAQs
When is National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month?
National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month runs throughout July 2026. This dedicated month provides a crucial opportunity to educate the public and support affected families.
How many babies are born with clefts in the U.S. each year?
According to the CDC, approximately 2,600 babies are born with a cleft palate and 4,400 with a cleft lip (with or without a cleft palate) in the U.S. each year. These numbers highlight the ongoing need for awareness and support for affected families.
What causes cleft lip and palate?
The exact cause of cleft lip and palate is often unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. These can include certain medications taken during pregnancy, maternal illnesses, or exposure to environmental toxins.
What is the difference between cleft lip and cleft palate?
A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip, appearing as a narrow opening or groove in the skin. A cleft palate, conversely, is an opening or split in the roof of the mouth, which can affect both the hard and soft palate.
How to Observe National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month
Share information with your friends
You can share many pages on Facebook, Twitter, or via email to raise awareness about these conditions. You must educate your family and friends about cleft lip and palate conditions.
Host a virtual or in-person fundraiser
This can be an opportunity to launch a fundraiser. Many organizations research the topic and need funds to investigate.
Share your story
This month is a great opportunity to learn more about a very treatable condition that affects many children. If you are one of those children, do not miss the opportunity to share your story.
5 Facts About Cleft And Craniofacial That You Probably Do Not Know
The fourth and seventh weeks of pregnancy
If the tissue that makes up the lip does not join completely before birth, a cleft lip happens during the fourth and seventh week of pregnancy.
The roof of the mouth
If the tissue that makes up the roof of the mouth does not join together completely during pregnancy, a cleft palate happens.
Many babies have these conditions
In the United States, about one in every 1,600 babies is born with cleft lip or cleft palate.
Surgery occurs in the first few months
Surgery to repair a cleft lip is recommended within the first 12 months of life.
Most children do well after surgery
With treatment and successful surgery, most children with orofacial clefts do well and lead healthy lives.
Why National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month is Important
It is an opportunity for foundations to raise funds
To do research and hire scientists, foundations need funds. Therefore, this month can be considered a great opportunity for you to donate.
It is a month to raise awareness
It is so important to raise awareness about cleft and craniofacial conditions. Parents who want to have a baby will find it very informative to learn about this.
Wear a pink ribbon
By wearing a pink ribbon, people aim to support children born with craniofacial defects. This ribbon is used not only in the United States but also in other countries.
Social Media Tips for National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month
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