What is cleft palate?
Cleft palate is a congenital condition characterized by an opening or split on the roof of the mouth, known as the palate. There are two kinds of cleft palate: unilateral, when an opening or split occurs on only one side of the mouth, and bilateral when the opening or separation occurs on both sides.
What issues do children with cleft palate face?
VULNERABLE HEALTH AND FREQUENT INFECTIONS
Children with cleft palate are more prone to infections, and difficulty eating leads to frequent illness–especially in infants.
STIGMA
Children may be excluded or experience ridicule, leading to embarrassment and isolation.
COMMUNICATION CHALLENGES
Cleft palate can cause speech delays which hinder a child’s ability to communicate, preventing them from connecting with others.
How does surgery change a child’s life?
- A new smile brings confidence and hope
- Children can eat more effectively, leading to better physical and emotional health
- Speech improves, restoring confidence as children participate in community life
