PREVALENCE, IMPACT, AND ECONOMIC BURDENS
Birth defects affect an estimated 120,000 children annually in the United States, representing approximately 3% of all live births, or 1 in every 33 infants. These structural anomalies are a leading cause of infant mortality, accounting for roughly 20% of all infant deaths. [cdc.gov]. Infants born with birth defects face increased risks of illness, long-term disability, and preterm birth compared to those without such conditions. Additionally, birth defects contribute significantly to healthcare utilization, accounting for approximately 30% of all pediatric hospital admissions [cdc.gov].
Key Insights for Public Health Reporting
ACCORDING TO THE U.S.DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
The average cost of raising a child to age 18 is approximately $233,610 for a middle-income family. However, for children born with birth defect-related disabilities, this figure can quadruple, reaching nearly $1 million over a child’s lifetime. The increase is largely attributed to the need for specialized medical care, therapies, and adaptive services. [usda.gov] - In addition to standard child-rearing expenses, families of children with birth defects often incur extraordinary annual costs—estimated at $10,000 or more—for specialized food, clothing, housing modifications, and travel for medical appointments. These costs are in addition to the already substantial healthcare burden, with birth defect–associated hospitalizations accounting for $22.2 billion in inpatient medical costs alone. This financial strain highlights the importance of public health strategies that support early intervention, equitable access to care, and comprehensive family support services.
SUPPORTING FAMILIES THROUGH ADVOCACY
FG Cares is a public charity nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by children with birth defect disabilities and their families living at or below the poverty line. The organization’s core initiative focuses on providing resources and financial assistance to help offset the extraordinary costs associated with specialized care, including medical services, adaptive equipment, and essential living needs. Through the collective voices of its members and contributors, FG Cares advocates for policy change and public awareness to address the disproportionate burden these families face. The organization calls for: Expanded access to financial assistance programs for low-income families - Increased funding for early intervention and specialized pediatric care - Inclusive education policies that support children with disabilities.Community-based support services including respite care and caregiver counseling - Public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and promote understanding of birth defect-related disabilities. FG Cares plays a vital role in bridging the gap between policy and lived experience, ensuring that the needs of vulnerable families are heard and addressed.