New research published in the Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology in June 2026 suggests a link between maternal exposure to agricultural chemicals during pregnancy and an increased likelihood of orofacial clefts.
This World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7), Operation Smile is highlighting the importance of breastfeeding and the need to support mothers, especially those caring for infants with cleft conditions. Infants born with cleft conditions are 9 times more likely to die within their first year of life than other infants – and feeding challenges contribute significantly to this risk.
From Friday 24 July to Sunday 26 July, more than 220 patients received specialist healthcare during a successful three-day programme at Rob Ferreira Hospital in Mbombela.
Delivered by Operation Smile South Africa, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Health, the programme combined life-changing cleft surgery with a free community dental initiative.
If you, or a family member has a cleft lip and/or cleft palate – come to the Rob Ferreira Hospital in Mbombela on 24 July for health screening to assess your suitability to receive free surgery and comprehensive cleft care.
Delivered by Operation Smile South Africa, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Health, the programme will take place from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 July 2026.