Did you know that 1 in 33 babies is born with a birth defect every year? How can we prevent birth defects and ensure healthier pregnancies? What role does March of Dimes play in supporting families and raising awareness? Learn more about this important observance and its impact.
March of Dimes National Birth Defects Awareness Month is observed annually in January to raise awareness about birth defects, their prevention, and the importance of maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Birth defects are structural changes that usually occur within the first three months of pregnancy and can affect one or more body parts. In the U.S., approximately one in 33 babies is born with a birth defect every year. These defects can include conditions such as congenital heart defects, cleft lip, cleft palate, and spina bifida. This month provides crucial information and resources for women to support them in having a healthy pregnancy and caring for their babies.
The History of March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month
The March of Dimes is a non-profit organization that has been supporting the health of mothers and babies for over 80 years. Its mission includes funding research, providing education, and running programs that directly benefit families. The March of Dimes partners with organizations such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to advance these efforts.
The March of Dimes was initially founded by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1938, following his contraction of polio in 1921. Roosevelt established the organization, then called the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, to raise funds for polio research. After the successful development of the polio vaccine, the foundation’s focus shifted to preventing birth defects and reducing infant mortality.
By the 1950s, the March of Dimes expanded its scope, establishing birth defect treatment centers and funding genetics research. Dr. Virginia Apgar, an obstetrical anesthesiologist famous for creating the Apgar Score, which is used to assess newborns’ physical health, played a pivotal role in the organization’s efforts. She also highlighted the importance of preventing premature births in the 1960s.
In 1969, the organization launched its first walk-a-thon fundraising event, which later evolved into the successful WalkAmerica. These walking events have become an integral part of the March of Dimes’ mission. Over time, the organization became known as the March of Dimes Foundation, and its name reflects its broader scope, which continues to evolve to meet the needs of mothers and babies.
Key Milestones in March of Dimes History
1938: The Foundation is Established
President Roosevelt establishes the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis to combat polio.
1945: The Women’s Division is Created
Elaine Whitelaw, Vice President of March of Dimes, creates the Women’s Division to empower women as primary caregivers.
1976: Renaming of the Organization
The organization changes its name to the March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation, broadening its mission to include birth defects prevention.
1998: Global Outreach
March of Dimes extends its efforts worldwide by establishing the Global Programs Department, focusing on international maternal and child health.
2005: Focus on Pre-term Birth
Recognizing that pre-term birth is the leading cause of death among children worldwide, March of Dimes places its focus on preventing premature births and researching solutions to this critical issue.
2007: Official Name Change
The foundation officially adopts the name March of Dimes Foundation, marking its broader commitment to maternal and infant health issues beyond polio prevention.
How to Observe March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month
Spread the Word
One of the simplest ways to observe Birth Defects Prevention Month is by helping to spread awareness. You can share information about the importance of healthy pregnancies and birth defect prevention on social media platforms. By engaging in conversations about the topic, you help bring attention to this important cause.
Watch Educational Content
Watching videos or listening to podcasts that cover topics such as maternal risk factors, preventing infections during pregnancy, and understanding birth defects can be both informative and empowering. These resources provide valuable tips for women and families planning a pregnancy or those already expecting.
Distribute Information
The CDC and National Birth Defects Prevention Network offer free materials, including brochures and infographics, that help explain the causes and prevention of birth defects. You can print and distribute these resources to your community to spread knowledge and encourage preventative measures.
Why March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month is Important
Children are the Future
The observance of this month is vital in ensuring that future generations have the best possible start in life. By sharing knowledge about birth defects and prevention strategies, we contribute to healthier pregnancies and better outcomes for children worldwide.
Easily Accessible Information
During this month, information and resources about birth defects are easily accessible, allowing individuals to learn about potential risks and preventative actions. This access to information is crucial for empowering families to make informed decisions during pregnancy.
Supportive Networks
March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month also highlights the importance of creating supportive networks for parents of children affected by birth defects. Learning about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for various conditions helps foster empathy and compassion for families going through these challenges.
