Association of cleft lip and palate with predisposing factors

BACKGROUND: The cleft lip (CL) and palate are common orofacial congenital abnormalities observed in Indian population. Various predisposing factors contribute to this condition. PURPOSE: The purpose is to assess the most common type of CL and palate and to study predisposing factors associated with its development. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional prospective study was carried in 80 patients with CL and palate. A detailed history was recorded in predesigned pro forma. The occurrence of different types of CL and palate with predisposing factors were assessed. RESULTS: Out of 80 patients, 18.8% of patients had only CL, 46.2% had unilateral CL with palate (UCLP), and 35% had a bilateral CL with palate (BCLP). CL and palate were observed more in males. The left side of the lip was more affected than the right side. Low socioeconomic status patients had more incidences. Advanced maternal age, more than 35 years, was the most common predisposing factor 62.5%. Consanguineous marriage of parents was the second-most predisposing factor observed in 40% of cases. Breastfeeding habit was observed in 73.3% of CL patients, 25% in UCLP patients, and 17.2% in BCLP patients. CONCLUSIONS: Males were more commonly affected by CL and palate with the left side predominance. Advanced maternal age above 35 years was the most predisposing factor followed by consanguineous marriage of the parents.