Epidemiological features of patients with nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate in Western Parana

Aim: : To describe the clinical, demographic and environmental features associated with NSCL/P(nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate) patients born in western Parana state, Brazil. Methods: Thiscross-sectional, observational, retrospective study included 188 patients attended at the Associationof Carriers of Cleft Lip and Palate - APOFILAB, Cascavel-Parana, between 2012 and 2014.Information on demographic characteristics, medical and dental histories and life style factors wereobtained from records and personal interviews. Results: Among the 188 patients, cleft lip and palate(CLP) was the most frequent subtype (55.8%), followed by cleft lip only (CLO, 25.0%) and cleft palateonly (CPO, 19.2%). Caucasian males were the most affected, although no differences among typesof cleft were observed. The otorhinolaryngologic and respiratory alterations were the most frequentsystemic alterations in NSCL/P patients, and more than 80% of the NSCL/P mothers reported novitamin supplements during the first trimester of pregnancy. Conclusions: This study revealed thatthe prevalence of nonsyndromic oral cleft types in this cohort was quite similar to previously reportedprevalence rates. Systemic alterations were identified among 23.4% of the patients and patientswith CLP were the most affected. History of maternal exposition to environmental factors related tononsyndromic oral clefts was frequent and most mothers reported no vitamin supplements duringthe pregnancy. This study highlights the importance of identifying systemic alterations and riskfactors associated with NSCL/P in the Brazilian population for planning comprehensive strategiesand integrated actions for the development of preventive programs and treatment.

Evaluation of a pregnant guidance program

The aim of the present study was to assess ability of pregnant women (n=82) to acquire guidance on breastfeeding, baby’s sucking habits, and oral hygiene. Subjects were interviewed before and after their enrolment in the pregnancy orientation program at Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas (UNICAMP). Results showed that all subjects improved their knowledge on all behavior aspects as well as their ability to follow guidance offered in this study. Information provided during the pre-natal period seems to help reduce incidence of early introduction of foods and weaning. To guarantee the success of programs designed to assist pregnant women, it is wise to use a systematic follow-up to motivate mothers after childbirth to keep up with guidance given in such programs, concerning not only information, but also emotional and instrumental support.