A US-based philanthropic health organization, Smile Train International, in partnership with the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) in Ilorin, Kwara State, has provided treatment for over 200 children with cleft lip and cleft palate in the past 16 years.

During an awareness campaign on cleft health problems among residents of the state capital, the team lead of Smile Train International at UITH, Dr Abdulrasheed Nasir, expressed concern about the stigma faced by patients with cleft conditions.

“Over 1.5 million children worldwide have benefited from free treatment provided by Smile Train International, and over 200 children have been treated at UITH with the funds made available. One out of 700 children worldwide has this problem.

People with this anomaly face challenges such as the inability to smile, food coming out of their nostrils when they eat, difficulty speaking publicly due to speech quality issues, and psychological impacts. Many children with cleft conditions don't attend school because they are unable to face their peers. That's why we are raising awareness to help everyone smile.”

Dr Nasir explained that cleft conditions are caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors and warned pregnant mothers to be cautious about the drugs and food they consume.

“Genetics play a role in each individual's body system. When combined with environmental factors such as food and drug intake, some risk factors increase the chances of having babies with cleft conditions, especially in individuals with diabetes, smokers, alcohol consumers, or those who are obese.

Certain drugs used for seizures or convulsions can also cause cleft palate. Therefore, pregnant mothers should be mindful of the food and drugs they consume.”

“We are creating awareness about the repair of cleft lip and cleft palate. These are conditions characterized by a gap in the lips or a hole in the roof of the mouth. It is a congenital condition, meaning individuals are born with it.”

Dr Nasir emphasized that hundreds of children are born with cleft conditions, and due to the psychological impact, parents sometimes become unhappy, abandon or even kill their babies out of shame.

“To address this, the organization sponsors free care, surgeries, medication, and investigations for these children wherever they are because we do not want them to live with this anomaly. The care is available at UITH, where we run our clinic every Wednesday, and surgeries are conducted throughout the year. This week is dedicated to creating awareness about cleft repair and care across the country and the world.”

“We urge people to bring their children, neighbours, and anyone with cleft conditions to receive free treatment. We counsel them that they will be amazed by the transformation of the treated children after surgery. The children look happy and beautiful. Cleft conditions are treatable, and free treatment is available in our own community. People just need to come forward and seek treatment.”

Dr Nasir encouraged a change in attitude and urged people to bring out children with cleft conditions for free treatment, emphasizing that people are often afraid and ashamed to seek help.