What causes cleft lip and palate anomalies?
A. Cleft lips and palates are anomalies that occur during the early weeks of embryonic development. Predisposition is the main cause, and studies indicate that other contributing factors might include folic acid or vitamin B deficiency, the use of anti-seizure medications, exposure to chemicals and infectious disease. Certain environmental agents have also been cited as disruptive to the normal development of a fetus.