Factors and causes

While most exact causative factors are unknown, it is recognized that hereditary and environmental factors contribute to the condition. Hereditary chromosomal defects are known for many other congenital conditions; however, no specific chromosomal abnormality has been identified for a cleft lip or palate deformity at present. Environmental factors can include:

1. Viral infections, such as German measles.
2. Medications, such as anti-cancer medications, anti-epilepsy medications, or steroids.
3. Exposure to X-rays.
4. Nutritional imbalance.

In Taiwan, it is sometimes said that when a woman cuts with scissors, nails a nail, moves homes, or moves cabinets during pregnancy it can cause cleft conditions in her child. Of course, this is nothing more than an old wives’ tale and has no basis in the truth. Many other cultures have similar old wives’ tales.