Prevention and control of birth defects in South-East Asia Region: strategic framework (‎2013-2017)

Member States in the South-East Asia Region have observed declining child mortality over the past two decades. This decline has been possible because of improved health services and a reduction in child mortality from causes such as birth asphyxia, infectious diseases and malnutrition. However, mortality from birth defects has remained constant, which has resulted in it becoming a larger proportional cause of infant mortality.

Birth defects are not only life-threatening but can also result in long-term disability, and negatively affect individuals, families, health-care systems and societies. Several interventions have been shown to be effective for prevention of birth defects in a variety of social and economic settings. In recognition of this public health priority, World Health Assembly resolutions have been adopted that call for global action for surveillance, prevention and treatment of birth defects within the comprehensive maternal, newborn, child health, and infant and young child nutrition plans. In response, the WHO Regional Office for South East-Asia has, in collaboration with Member States, developed a Strategic Framework for prevention and control of birth defects in the Region in the next five years. In the context of the existing situation in the Region, this Framework provides strategic directions to guide Member States in developing and strengthening birth defect surveillance and prevention programmes with consideration to integrate these within existing public health programmes. The Framework also outlines the roles and responsibilities of Member States, the WHO and partners.