The Ministry of Health Sri Lanka says that between 5,000 and 6,000 children are born with birth defects in Sri Lanka each year.
According to the Ministry, approximately 650 of these children die within their first year due to complications related to congenital conditions.
Health authorities define birth defects as structural or functional abnormalities that develop in a fetus during pregnancy, caused by genetic or environmental factors.
Sri Lanka records between 250,000 and 350,000 live births annually. Birth defects may be identified during pregnancy, at the time of birth, or later in life. Common conditions include heart defects, neurological disorders, and other complex congenital abnormalities.
Director of the Health Promotion Bureau, Dr. Ranjith Batuwanthudawa, stated that a special awareness week will begin next Monday to educate the public about birth defects and the importance of early detection and care.
Health officials emphasized that increased awareness, early screening, and proper medical support can significantly improve outcomes for affected children.
