Smile Train India and FOGSI initiate protocol for cleft lip and palate treatment

Smile Train India, India’s largest cleft focused NGO and The Federation of Obstertic and Gynaecological Society of India (FOGSI), India’s largest association of gynaecologists and obstetricians, launched a medical protocol for identification and treatment of cleft lip and palate to drive early diagnosis and intervention for children with clefts in India. 

Cleft Lip and Palate is a treatable birth difference that can be diagnosed by an ultrasound scan as early as 20 weeks of pregnancy and treatment counseling can start right there. Lack of information about the timelines of cleft care and superstitions can lead to uninformed decisions by parents of cleft affected children.

 Speaking at the announcement, Dr. Shanta Kumari President, FOGSI said, “ The collaboration with  Smile Train India, will mark the launch of a very critical program.

  Being the first point of contact for mothers, gynaecologists play a pivotal role in identifying foetal anomalies and educating families with the right information, hence their training and awareness must be a priority at all times.

 Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President & Regional Director, Asia, Smile Train said, “Our collaboration is a significant step towards comprehensive care for children with clefts in India. The protocol will be a useful resource for obstetricians and gynaecologists to guide cleft patients, address their queries and ensure interventions at an early stage.”