“Making Health Choices to Prevent Birth Defects…Make A PACT for Prevention” is the theme for this January’s Birth Defects Prevention Month,” stated Ocean County Freeholder Deputy Director Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. “This year, all women are encouraged to make a PACT – plan ahead, avoid harmful substances, choose a healthy lifestyle, and talk to your doctor, for their own health and the family they may have one day.”

Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) Public Health Coordinator, said, “Birth defects are common, costly and critical.  Every 4 ½ minutes, a baby is born with a major birth defect.  Professionals, community groups and the public can act to reduce the risk of certain birth defects, detect those that occur as soon as possible and prevent secondary complications.”

Regenye continued, “Not all birth defects can be prevented; however, all women, including teens, can lower their risk of having a baby born with a birth defect by following some basic health guidelines throughout their reproductive years.  When someone makes their PACT, they:

• Plan Ahead

-Get as healthy as you can before you get pregnant.

-Take 400 micrograms of folic acid every day.

• Avoid Harmful Substances

-Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking.

-Be careful with harmful exposures at work and home.

• Choose a Healthy Lifestyle

-Eat a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low fat -diary, lean proteins and healthy fast and oils.

-Be physically active.

-Work to get medical conditions like diabetes under control.

• Talk to Your Doctor

-Get a medical checkup.

-Discuss all medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.

-Talk about your family history.

The Ocean County Health Department supports the National Birth Defects Prevention Network and will work with them to share a nationwide effort to raise awareness of birth defects, their causes and their impact.

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