(BPT) - A cleft lip or palate isn't just cosmetic - it can threaten a child's ability to survive. Left untreated, a cleft can make it difficult to eat, breathe, hear, or speak; without proper medical care, a cleft can lead to chronic malnutrition and isolation.
Every three minutes, somewhere in the world, a baby is born with a cleft. The condition occurs when certain body parts and structures do not fuse together during early fetal development. In addition to the physical challenges cleft-affected children experience, they're very often harassed and bullied for the way they look and speak. Many drop out of school and become isolated.
The good news is that clefts are treatable! In fact, Smile Train - the world's largest cleft-focused organization - provides training for medical professionals in more than 75+ countries so they can support cleft treatments for patients in their own communities. In addition to providing free surgeries, Smile Train facilitates comprehensive cleft care such as speech therapy and dental care. Smile Train's sustainable model makes the nonprofit more efficient and effective than mission-trip-based organizations. To date, Smile Train has supported more than 2 million free cleft surgeries worldwide.
This year, Smile Train is taking another step to help cleft-affected individuals and unite the global cleft community by establishing the first-ever World Cleft Awareness Day.
What is World Cleft Awareness Day?
World Cleft Awareness Day is the first officially recognized day on the calendar dedicated to educating the public about cleft lip and palate, fostering acceptance and equal access to cleft care, and highlighting the treatment journey of individuals and their families' experiences.
"People often think of clefts as a single surgery, when in reality, the journey can last decades," said Iva Ballou, manager, community development for Smile Train. "Being cleft-affected, I've undergone numerous surgeries connected to my condition. World Cleft Awareness Day is a great opportunity to educate the public and advocate for equal access to care for everyone, everywhere."
When is World Cleft Awareness Day?
The inaugural World Cleft Awareness Day is Sunday, July 20, 2025, aligning with National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month.
What are the main goals and purposes of World Cleft Awareness Day?
The main goal and purpose of World Cleft Awareness Day is to increase public awareness of cleft and the yearslong cleft treatment journey, from pre-surgery preparations at birth through surgical interventions and ongoing comprehensive cleft care that can go on for decades.
Why was World Cleft Awareness Day created?
World Cleft Awareness Day was created to celebrate and unite the global cleft community.
"World Cleft Awareness Day is about raising awareness, but it's more than that - it's about celebrating the strength and resilience of the global cleft community," said Susannah Schaefer, president and CEO of Smile Train. "By founding and leading this observance, Smile Train is creating space for cleft-affected individuals and their families to be seen, heard and supported."
Who can get involved?
Anyone and everyone can get involved in observing World Cleft Awareness Day. Patients, families, medical professionals, nonprofit organizations, corporate partners, influencers, and advocates are all welcome to participate. The more voices that join, the greater the impact.
To learn more about World Cleft Awareness Day, Smile Train's initiatives and the lives of cleft-affected children, visit CleftDay.com.
