Birth Defects Overview Definition: an abnormality of structure or function (including metabolism) present at birth which results in a physical or mental disability

Possible Causes Environment (ie:FAS) Heredity (Hemophilia, Color blindness) Interaction between Environment & Heredity (ie: Cleft palate, Spina bifida) Errors in Chromosomes (ie:Downs Syndrome) For 60-70% the cause is unknown

Chromosonal Causes A single abnormal gene can cause it thousand genes in a human being These genes are packaged into 46 chromosomes

Environmental Causes Poor nutrition Diseases or Infections – German Measles Harmful substances – drugs, tabacco… Exposure to outside hazards - radiation

Prevention/Treatment Some Birth Defects can be prevented or diagnosed before birth Some can be treated in-utero or at birth

Birth Defects Presentation Get together in groups of 3-4, decide on a birth defect you want to find out more about (no duplicates). Using the textbook & internet sites (such as the March of Dimes website). Take notes & create a Power Point which you will present to the class educating the class on the following: –Description of the Birth Defect –Who is affected & when it becomes evident –How it is acquired or Method of inheritance –Effects of this birth defect –Treatment *Send me your power point 1 day before presentation * Print out a thumbnail (6 slides per page) page to turn in with the grade sheet on the day of your presentation)