KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian has called for continuous efforts to spread awareness on spina bifida – a birth defect that occurs when the spine and spinal cord don’t form properly.
He said the defect – caused by neural tube defects which can result in physical, mobility and other medical complications – can be prevented.
“Spina bifida is highly preventable and one of the ways to prevent it is by consuming folic acid.
“Therefore, you have a choice to make a difference and prevent the baby from getting spina bifida,” he said when officiating at the Spina Bifida Awareness Workshop 2023 here today.
Dr Sim, who is also the Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, praised the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association of Malaysia (SiBIAM), District Action Group on Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (DASH), and Rotary Club for coming forward to help spina bifida patients and their families.
“Be it big or small, you all make a difference and through your respective organisations, you put service above yourself to help others,” he said.
Meanwhile, SGH head of Department and Consultant Rehabilitation Physician and Association of Sarawak Rehabilitation Professionals president Dr Leong Be Kim said the workshop is a platform for the sharing of knowledge and networking between healthcare professionals and spina bifida families.
“Participation by both healthcare professionals and spina bifida families will definitely create a stronger foundation for multidisciplinary management.
“Teamwork and collaboration will produce the best outcome; following this workshop we are in the right journey for better disabilities management,” she said.
Spina bifida is a condition that affects the spine and the spinal cord of a child even while still in the womb, leaving the child with varying degrees of paralysis.
There are three most common types of spina bifida, namely Spina Bifida Occulta, Spina Bifida Myelomeningocele and Spina Bifida Myelomeningocele.
Children with spina bifida may also experience other problems while growing up, such as limited mobility, loss of bowel and bladder control, gastrointestinal disorders and learning disabilities, making it a challenge to continue with regular day-to-day functionality.
The most common indication in an infant is a dimple in their lower back, but special tests are necessary to be sure.
Other signs are red marks, hyper-pigmented patches, tufts of hair or small lumps on the back.
Although the type and level of severity differ among people with spina bifida and may require different treatments, it is possible for them to learn how to get around on their own without help, by using crutches, braces or wheelchairs.
With guidance, and support, it is possible for people with spina bifida to be independent, integrate into society and live full lives.
The workshop is jointly organised by Sarawak General Hospital (SGH), Rotary District 3300, Rotary District 3310, Association of Sarawak Rehabilitation Professional, SiBIAM and DASH.
More than 100 health care professionals from throughout Sarawak participated in the workshop.
Among those present were SiBIAM president Prof Dr Amara Naicker-Naysaduray and SGH director Dr Ngian Hie Ung.
