Revising Destiny - Surgical Care in Birth Defects

Abstract

Birth Defects are accountable for the substantial surgical burden of disease worldwide. It can bring upon death, chronic illness, disability [physical or mental or both], financial burden, social stigma, abandonment, feticide and Infanticide. Availing timely and safe surgery can minimize the potential fatalities and sufferings caused by birth defects. Yet surgery is not treated as essential for the management of birth defects, especially in lower middle-income countries. It causes potentially correctable conditions to exacerbate, which can lead to death or lifelong disabilities. Surgical care cannot only correct birth defects but also can avert potential Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) and financial burden. Furthermore, surgical correction facilitates social inclusion. Such transformation can be equated to "Revising Destiny". A "whole of society" approach focused on surgical care is instrumental for addressing the health, financial, and social implications of birth defects. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V: Expert Opinion.

Keywords: Advocacy; Birth defects; Congenital anomalies; Cost; Global pediatric surgery; Innovations; Stigma; Whole society.