Other harmful germs and parasites can be avoided by using good hygiene. The parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, for example, is found in cat feces and raw meat, and can cause severe brain damage in the fetus. Pregnant women should avoid contact with raw meat, sand or litter boxes, and wear gloves when gardening. Smoke from another person's cigarette can also be harmful to the unborn child. Data collected on birth defects in Texas are carefully screened for accuracy by our office staff and by medical doctors who provide clinical review.
Care is taken at each step to protect the confidentiality of case families.
Analysis of surveillance data enables the Texas Department of Health to draw an increasingly accurate picture of the extent and occurrence of birth defects in Texas. Identifying geographical areas with consistently high rates. Providing summaries and tables upon request to the public, health planners, local health departments, and others. Looking at Registry data helps determine the actual extent and nature of the cluster accurately and efficiently. Identifying families of children with specific birth defects who may be invited to participate in research studies.