The Boston Children’s Hospital has done extensive research and concluded that cleft lip and palate occurs as a result of the interaction between genes and the external environment. In layman’s terms, it is the result of the interaction and influence of internal and external factors.
Cleft lip and palate is not directly inherited, but many studies have shown that the percentage of babies born with cleft lip and palate in the normal population is about two per 1,000, but if one relative has a gene for cleft lip and palate present, it increases this percentage to about eight percent, and with two genes for cleft lip and palate present, it increases the percentage to about 14 percent. In other words, cleft lip and palate is not directly inherited, but it does increase the probability of having a baby with cleft lip and palate.
On the other hand, the external environment also plays a very important role. We all know that the development of the baby’s face is completed in the first trimester of pregnancy. Then many injuries suffered by the mother during this trimester can indirectly lead to the development of cleft lip and palate. Studies have shown that many medications, especially antibiotics, can largely contribute to the development of cleft lip and palate; some mental illnesses, such as depression and fear, can also have adverse consequences; and tobacco and alcohol are also considered to be among the culprits. Therefore, mothers-to-be should pay attention, maintain good health and optimistic mood, and stay away from tobacco and alcohol!
To sum up, cleft lip and palate occurs as a result of genetic and environmental interactions, caused by facial fusion and splicing disorders.