15. Myths and Misconceptions
Cleft lips, owing to their visible nature and relative rarity, have been shrouded in myths and misconceptions for centuries. These falsehoods, often perpetuated by a lack of awareness, can lead to unwarranted stigmas and prejudices.
One common myth is that cleft lips are a result of actions or misdeeds in a past life. Rooted in cultural beliefs, this notion not only lacks scientific backing but also unfairly places blame on the innocent.
Another misconception is that clefts are contagious. This baseless idea can lead to unnecessary social ostracization. Clefts are congenital anomalies and cannot be “caught” like a cold.
Some also mistakenly believe that individuals with cleft lips are intellectually compromised. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. A cleft lip has no bearing on cognitive abilities or intelligence. (15)
