Cleft Lip and Palate Association
A cleft lip and palate exists where there is a fissure, notch gap or depression in the lip or palate. In early pregnancy separate areas of the face and head develop individually and then join together. If certain parts do not join correctly the result is a cleft lip or palate or both. Some children with a cleft palate have difficulties with speech. With early help from a speech therapist most difficulties can be overcome.
Inheritance patterns Slight genetic predisposition. The risk of recurrence increases with the severity of the cleft, unless the condition is part of another inheritable syndrome.
Pre-natal diagnosis
This is becoming more common and can be detected at the 20 week scan.
The association is a National Registered Charity No.277842. It was founded in 1979 and consists of parents, nurses, surgeons, dental specialists, speech therapists, social workers and others with experience of the needs and treatments required.
CLAPA offers:
- Support through a network of regional groups
- Feeding equipment and advice
- Educational seminars for parents and health professionals
- Occasional grants for small research projects
- Occasional funding for other items of equipment
Activities
National awareness campaigns
Two national meetings annually - one in London
Publications
Publications list available on request
Members
National subscription list of around 6,000 (regional groups)
Subscriptions
Donations and payments for some services
for more information
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