Thalassemia to Cleft Lip/Palate: Congenital Disorders in Indonesian Infants 2023

The 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) report from the Ministry of Health shows a number of congenital anomalies affecting toddlers (children aged 0-59 months) in Indonesia in 2023.

The most prevalent was thalassemia, with a proportion of 0.56% of the weighted population, amounting to 86,231 cases last year.

According to Siloam Hospitals' website, thalassemia is a congenital disease characterized by an abnormality in the formation of the protein structure in blood hemoglobin.

As a result, sufferers experience anemia, splenomegaly, physical changes, and stunted growth.

The second most common anomaly was heart defects at 0.37%. Third was clubfoot at 0.28%.

Other anomalies experienced by toddlers include Down syndrome (0.26%); cleft lip (0.24%); hydrocephalus (0.2%); anal atresia (0.2%); and conjoined twins (0.16%).

The Ministry of Health stated that congenital anomalies can cause neonatal death and spontaneous abortion.

"Even if the baby survives, many become disabled and suffer from chronic illnesses," wrote the Ministry of Health in its report commemorating World Congenital Anomaly Day on March 3, 2023.

While the main causes of congenital anomalies are genetic factors, infections, and environmental factors, the Ministry of Health stated that many of these anomalies are preventable. For example, through vaccination and the consumption of certain substances by pregnant women, such as folic acid and iodine, and avoiding the consumption of medications not recommended by a doctor.

Furthermore, avoid alcohol or hazardous substances such as artificial preservatives and coloring agents, avoid exposure to hazardous and toxic materials such as lead, mercury, and pesticides, engage in regular physical activity/exercise, and avoid exposure to cigarette smoke during pregnancy.

(Also read: 59% of Disabilities Stem from These Diseases)