This topic is highly related to unit 7 - human development since it discussed that between the fourth and twelfth weeks of pregnancy, a baby's lip, palate, nose, and mouth all develop.

Of all the several types of craniofacial deformities, orofacial clefts (OFC) are the most prevalent. OFCs are often seen in isolation and are not classed as syndromic; however, when they are found in conjunction with other symptoms, they are labeled as syndromic. Because OFCs have a complicated etiology, researchers have identified a significant number of potential genes and loci with varied roles that have been implicated in the development of CL/P, demonstrating the great susceptibility of the craniofacial developmental pathways. The paper presented a complete summary of etiological studies, taking into account both direct and indirect evidence of putative genetic pathways, in order to better understand the disease. The authors also came to the conclusion that the integration of genetic and environmental risk using various approaches such as epigenetics, systems biology, gene expression, and epidemiology will be required in order to better understand the etiology of diseases as well as to provide better clinical care and prevention.

To ensure that the anomaly is averted at an early stage, pregnant women should be counseled by a health care professional. Promoting education about orofacial clefts and the steps taken to avoid them should be a priority. Studying the genes of those who are born with cleft lips and palates is essential if we are to uncover any possible risk factors.