The journal ‘Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal’ is the official publication of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association (ACPA). A recent study published in this journal discusses international views on cleft lip and palate around the world, in particular those from non-Western cultures. You can read the article in full at http://www.cpcjournal.org/doi/full/10.1597/09-046
It is widely acknowledged and documented that in the Western world, individuals with cleft lip/palate often experience social and emotional isolation or difficulties as a result of their facial anomalies. It may be possible that the traditionally Western preoccupation with looks and external ‘beauty’ contributes towards this.
According to the study however, cleft lip/palate is perceived in a number of different ways by many ‘non-Anglo’ cultures, possibly influenced by religion, superstition or cultural prejudices. The study cites a number of cultures, including China, the Philippines, Brazil and tribes from Central Africa. Superstitions included believing cleft lip/palate “to be the result of a pregnant woman consuming rabbit meat, transgressions of the individual’s ancestors, or the father slaughtering chickens or fishing while his wife was pregnant (associating the fish hook and the mutilating of the fish’s mouth).” Some cultures however view cleft lip/palate as a source of pride. The study states that, “In a Brazilian shantytown, individuals with cleft lip/palate are seen as survivors, individuals who have ‘‘avenged fate’’ and overcome obstacles”. They also note that “the Chamorro culture of the Mariana Islands views someone with cleft lip/palate as a ‘‘gift from God,’’ an individual who ‘‘belongs to everyone and is protected and sheltered’’.
A number of treatment options are available to individuals with cleft lip/palate, depending on the nature and severity of their condition. An interdisciplinary approach to intervention is usually of most benefit, incorporating a team consisting of, but not limited to: “paediatric dentists, plastic surgeons, geneticists, speech and language
Therapists, otolaryngologists, orthodontists and audiologists.” Treatment will typically begin from a very young age and will continue into childhood, adolescence and even adulthood if appropriate.
If you think that a family member may benefit from speech and language therapy, Integrated Treatment Services could be of help. Contact us here: https://integratedtreatmentservices.co.uk/contact-us/enquiry
Sarah Bennington, December 2011
Written on behalf of Integrated Treatment Services. Integrated Treatment Services is a private Speech and Language Therapy service based in Leicestershire and the East Midlands. It specialises in providing highly-skilled Speech and Language Therapists, but also associates with other therapeutic professionals, including Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists and Arts Therapists.
