World Birth Defects Day 2016

More than 8 million babies worldwide are born each year with a serious birth defect. Birth defects are a leading cause of death in the first year of life, and babies who survive may be physically or mentally disabled, taking a costly toll on their families, communities and nations.

The March of Dimes and over 50 other international organizations working for birth defects are joining World Birth Defects Day, observed every year on March 3 to raise awareness of this serious global problem and advocate for more surveillance, prevention, care and research to help babies and children. We are urging the public, governments, non-governmental organizations, policymakers, researchers and health care providers around the world to help us work together toward a healthier future for children.

Birth defects affect all races and ethnicities. Everyone can get involved in raising awareness. Please observe World Birth Defects Day by participating in social media activities and share a story or picture about the impact of birth defects on you and your family.

What can you do?

1. Post an announcement on your blog, Facebook, Twitter or other social media platform.
2. Register to be a part of the Thunderclap — a message will be sent out at 9:00 a.m. EST on March 3 to help raise awareness
3. Join the Buzzday on Twitter on March 3. Plan to send one or more messages using the #WorldBDDay tag at some point during the day. Retweet both promotional and day-of messages to build our buzz for the day.

We look forward to having you join the conversation. Together, we can make strides to improve knowledge and raise awareness.

If you have questions, send them to AskUs@marchofdimes.org.

Tags: birth defects, March 3, Thunderclap, World Birth Defects Day