birth defect
Noun: A physical or biochemical abnormality that is present at a person's birth. It can be caused by genetic factors, problems during pregnancy, or exposure to harmful substances. Birth defects can affect the structure or function of a body part and range from mild to severe.
The term "birth defect" is a medical and general term used to describe a condition existing from birth. It is often used in healthcare, public health, and scientific discussions. * It is typically used as a countable noun (e.g., a birth defect, several birth defects). * While clinically accurate, some consider the term "defect" to have negative connotations. In more sensitive or person-first language, terms like "congenital condition" or "congenital disorder" may be preferred.
- The ultrasound scan can sometimes detect certain birth defects before a baby is born.
- Folic acid is important during pregnancy to help prevent some types of birth defects.
- He was born with a birth defect affecting his heart.
- Researchers are studying the causes of this rare birth defect.
- "Birth defect" vs. "Congenital Disorder": While often used interchangeably in general contexts, "congenital disorder" is a broader, more clinical term that encompasses all conditions present at birth, including those that are not necessarily structural "defects" (e.g., metabolic disorders). "Birth defect" more specifically implies a structural or physical anomaly.
- Etiology (Cause): In medical contexts, a birth defect may be described by its cause, such as a (e.g., from a chromosomal abnormality) or an (e.g., from a teratogen like alcohol).
- Congenital disorder / anomaly / condition: A more formal or clinical synonym for a condition present at birth.
- Congenital abnormality: A very close synonym, often used in medical literature.
- Malformation: Often used specifically for structural defects in the shape or structure of a body part.
- Teratogen: (Noun) An agent or factor that can cause a birth defect (e.g., certain chemicals, viruses, drugs).
- Congenital disorder
- Congenital anomaly
- Congenital abnormality
- Malformation (for structural defects)
- Acquired condition (a condition developed after birth)
- Neural tube defect: A specific class of birth defects affecting the brain, spine, or spinal cord (e.g., spina bifida).
- Birth defect registry: A system for collecting data on the occurrence of birth defects in a population.
- Preventable birth defect: A birth defect whose occurrence can be reduced through measures like vaccination or nutrition.
- a defect that is present at birth