Support for Cleft Lip/Palate
“It is more common than you can imagine. You are not alone. And while you will have this the rest of your life, you can dart between the raindrops to get where you want to go, and it will not hold you back.” - Steven Spielberg, award-winning director:
Fana-Ethiopia collaborates with medical professionals and NGOs to provide comprehensive care for individuals with cleft lip/palate. Our services include surgical interventions, speech therapy, and psychosocial support.
Understanding Cleft Lip/Palate
Cleft lip and cleft palate are congenital conditions where the lip or roof of the mouth does not form properly during fetal development. This can affect speech, feeding, dental health, and social interactions.
Causes
Cleft lip/palate may result from genetic factors, environmental influences, or a combination of both. It can occur as an isolated condition or as part of a genetic syndrome.
Early Signs and Symptoms
Signs of cleft lip/palate may include:
- Visible split in the lip and/or roof of the mouth
- Difficulty feeding or swallowing
- Nasal speech quality
- Dental abnormalities
Tests and Treatment
Diagnosing and managing cleft lip/palate involves collaboration between healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, surgeons, speech-language pathologists, and dentists.
Treatment may include:
- Surgical repair of the cleft lip and/or palate
- Speech therapy to improve speech clarity and articulation
- Orthodontic treatment to address dental alignment
- Psychosocial support for the individual and their family
How Fana-Ethiopia Can Help
We provide comprehensive care for individuals with cleft lip/palate, including surgical interventions, speech therapy, and psychosocial support. Our goal is to improve communication, feeding, and overall quality of life for affected individuals. Contact us to learn more about our services for cleft lip/palate support.