Objectives:

Describe the current burden and trends of congenital disorders in South Africa.
Identify preventable causes and key risk factors for congenital disorders.
Recognize common congenital disorders seen in South African healthcare settings.
Demonstrate understanding of birth defects surveillance and proper notification procedures.
To enhance clinicians’ understanding of medication safety in pregnancy
Explain the role of genetic counselling in supporting families.

Questions/key issues to be covered:

What are the common birth defects in South Africa, and how are they identified and managed (including genetic counselling)?
What are the risk factors for birth defects?
What is birth defect surveillance, and why is it important

Speakers:

Ms Sebotse Ngake
Director: Child, Youth & School Health

Prof Helen Malherbe
Associate Professor

Dr Njabulo Mabaso
Medical geneticist and lecturer

Ms Monica Araujo
Registered genetic counsellor and lecturer

Dr Di Lavies
Senior Researcher

Prof Ushma Mehta
Senior Researcher

Video: