Birth Defects Awareness Month: What Families Should Know

National Birth Defects Awareness Month takes place in January. It is a time dedicated to education, support, and building stronger communities for children and families affected by conditions present at birth. At ImageCare Radiology, we take this month to recognize the essential role early detection and imaging play in helping children receive the care they need—right from the start. By expanding awareness, we empower families, improve outcomes, and foster compassion for those navigating lifelong conditions. 

What Are Birth Defects?

Birth defects are structural or functional conditions that develop during pregnancy. They can affect almost any part of the body—from the heart and brain to bones, skin, or sensory systems. These conditions range widely in severity: some require minimal intervention, while others need complex, ongoing medical care. 

Although the term “birth defect” is medical, it describes a condition, not a person. Each child’s experience is unique, shaped by their strengths, their diagnosis, their care team, and the support systems around them. 

Quick Fact 

Every 4.5 minutes, a baby in the U.S. is born with a condition that affects their body’s structure or function. 

Awareness Action 

Share a fact on social media to help reduce stigma and encourage more open conversations about early care and support. 

Why Early Detection Matters

Not all birth defects are preventable, but early identification gives families a clearer understanding of their child’s needs and helps clinicians develop an individualized care plan. Many conditions—such as congenital heart defects, neural tube defects, hearing loss, or cleft lip—benefit greatly from early intervention. 

How Early Detection Helps 

• Improves long-term developmental outcomes 
• Supports coordinated, specialized care 
• Helps families prepare emotionally, medically, and financially 
• Increases access to resources, therapy, or corrective treatments 

Awareness Action 

Encourage expectant parents in your community to attend all prenatal appointments and follow recommended screening guidelines. 

Where Pediatric Radiology Fits In

Pediatric radiology plays an important  role in caring for children born with structural differences. While radiology does not prevent birth defects, it is often one of the core tools used to detect, diagnose, and monitor many of these conditions, both during pregnancy and throughout childhood.

How Imaging Supports Children with Birth Defects 

• Prenatal Ultrasound
  Often identifies structural differences early in pregnancy to help families and care teams prepare for a safe delivery and immediate care needs. 
• Pediatric Ultrasound & X-ray
  Helps evaluate conditions such as congenital heart defects, hip abnormalities, gastrointestinal issues, or limb differences. 
• MRI & CT Imaging
  Provides detailed insight into the brain, spine, organs, or soft tissues for conditions like spina bifida, microcephaly, hearing-related disorders, and congenital anomalies. 
• Monitoring Over Time
  Many children require periodic imaging as they grow to ensure treatments are effective and to guide ongoing care.

Quick Fact 

Pediatric radiology uses customized, low-dose techniques designed specifically for children’s safety, comfort, and developmental needs.

Awareness Action 

If someone you know has a child undergoing medical testing, you can offer support through rides, meals, or simply listening. 

Common Conditions Associated with Birth Defects

Birth defects can affect almost any part of the body. Some of the more well-known conditions include: 

• Cleft lip and cleft palate 
• Congenital heart defects 
• Clubfoot 
• Neural tube defects such as spina bifida 
• Gastroschisis 
• Hearing loss 
• Microcephaly

Each child’s path varies. Some require surgery shortly after birth, while others benefit from long-term therapies, adaptive interventions, or periodic imaging. 

Quick Fact 

Congenital heart defects are the most common birth defects in the U.S.

Awareness Action 

Support organizations, like March of Dimes, or local advocacy groups; these communities offer invaluable resources for families. 

Caring for Children with Birth Defects: Coordinated Support Matters

Families navigating complex medical care often work with a team of specialists—pediatricians, surgeons, therapists, social workers, and radiologists. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) highlights the benefits of a “medical home” approach, where care is coordinated across multiple providers.

How Coordinated Care Helps 

• More consistent communication 
• Less duplication of tests and appointments 
• Lower healthcare burdens 
• More confidence for parents making decisions

Quick Fact 

Children with conditions like spina bifida, congenital heart defects, or gastroschisis often need involvement from multiple specialists during infancy and beyond.

Awareness Action 

If you know a caregiver juggling appointments, ask if they need help organizing visits or managing calendars. Small gestures lighten big loads.

Building Independence as Children Grow 

As children with birth conditions grow into their teen years, they often take on new responsibilities, such as learning about their diagnosis, keeping track of their medical information, and preparing for the transition to taking care of their own medical needs as an adult. Early guidance and steady support enables them to build confidence and feel more in control of their health journey.

Helpful Skills for Teens 

• Tracking their medical history 
• Learning about insurance basics 
• Speaking up during appointments 
• Coordinating with caregivers and providers 

Quick Fact 

A planned transition from pediatric to adult care reduces gaps in treatment and improves long-term health outcomes.

Awareness Action 

Share resources or community groups that support teens with lifelong medical conditions. 

Community Support: Why It Matters

Connection is powerful. Whether through local groups, online forums, or condition-specific organizations, community support helps families feel seen, understood, and less alone.

Inclusive communities also promote disability awareness, accessibility, and acceptance, which are values that benefit everyone.

Quick Fact 

Community inclusion improves quality of life for people with disabilities and strengthens overall well-being. 

Awareness Action 

Promote disability inclusion in your workplace, school, or neighborhood. Small shifts create meaningful change. 

A Healthier Pregnancy: Steps That May Reduce Risk

While not all birth defects can be prevented, certain steps support a healthier pregnancy: 

• Take recommended folic acid 
• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes 
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs 
• Get regular prenatal care 
• Stay current with recommended vaccines 
• Protect against infections such as Zika 
• Talk with a provider about medications 
• Achieve a healthy weight before pregnancy if possible

Quick Fact 

Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects when taken before and early in pregnancy.

Awareness Action 

Share trusted prenatal health resources with expectant parents to help them stay informed and supported throughout pregnancy.

Together, We Can Raise Awareness

National Birth Defects Awareness Month reminds us that every family deserves compassion, resources, and accurate medical guidance. Pediatric radiology contributes to this effort by supporting early detection, providing essential diagnostic information, and helping care teams track children’s growth and treatment progress. 

At ImageCare Radiology, we are committed to providing safe, child-centered imaging that supports families every step of the way. 

If your child has a scheduled imaging exam or if you have questions, our team is here to help guide you with clarity, care, and compassion. 

Awareness brings connection. Connection brings support. And support helps every child thrive.