Fóstursjúkdómar

Fóstursjúkdómar is the Icelandic term for congenital diseases, which are conditions present at birth. These disorders can arise from a variety of causes, including genetic mutations, environmental factors affecting the mother during pregnancy, or a combination of both. Congenital diseases can range in severity, from mild conditions that have little impact on a child's life to severe, life-threatening illnesses.

Some fóstursjúkdómar are inherited from parents, meaning a child receives altered genes from one or both of them. Other conditions develop spontaneously due to new genetic mutations. Exposure to certain infections, medications, or toxins during pregnancy can also lead to congenital abnormalities. For example, rubella infection in the mother can cause severe birth defects.

The diagnosis of fóstursjúkdómar can occur before birth through prenatal screening and diagnostic tests, or after birth through physical examination and further medical testing. Management and treatment vary widely depending on the specific condition. Some congenital diseases may be treatable with medication or surgery, while others may require lifelong management of symptoms. Early detection and intervention are often crucial for improving outcomes for affected individuals. Public health initiatives often focus on prevention through maternal health education and prenatal care.