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March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month

March is not just about shamrocks and lucky charms - it's also Birth Defects Prevention Month with the March of Dimes, raising awareness for healthy pregnancies and babies.

Friday

1–31

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of January

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to raise awareness and support for birth defects prevention during March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month on January 1! Established in 1976, this month-long observance aims to educate the public about the importance of prenatal care and healthy lifestyle choices in reducing the risk of birth defects. It's also a time to celebrate the strength and resilience of babies born with birth defects, as well as honor the dedicated healthcare professionals and researchers working towards preventing and treating these conditions. Let's come together and make a positive impact on the lives of newborns and their families!

TIMELINE

March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month Timeline

Foundation of March of Dimes

President Franklin D. Roosevelt, himself a polio survivor, founded the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, later known as March of Dimes.

Polio Vaccine created

Research funded by March of Dimes led to the development of the polio vaccine by Dr. Jonas Salk.

Focus Shifted to Birth Defects

March of Dimes shifted its focus toward the prevention of birth defects and infant mortality after the successful eradication of polio.

Folic Acid Campaign

The organization launched a successful campaign promoting the use of folic acid during pregnancy, reducing neural tube defects significantly.

Prematurity Campaign

The March of Dimes launches a multi-year campaign to address the increasing rate of premature birth.

Birth Defects Prevention Month

The organization establishes January as the official March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month to raise awareness and funding for research into the causes of birth defects and methods of prevention.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month

Host a charity walk or run

Organize a charity walk or run to raise money and awareness for March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month. Invite friends, family, and community members to participate and donate to the cause.

CREATE

Create a social media campaign

Spread the word about March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month by creating a social media campaign. Share informative posts, personal stories, and ways to get involved with the cause.

HOST

Host a fundraiser event

Organize a fundraiser event such as a bake sale, auction, or concert to raise money for March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month. Invite local businesses and community members to participate and donate items or services for the event.

EDUCATE

Educate others about birth defects prevention

Use this month as an opportunity to educate others about birth defects prevention. Host a seminar or workshop, create informational flyers, or speak to local schools and organizations about the importance of prevention and prenatal care.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local hospital or organization

Reach out to local hospitals or organizations that support babies and families affected by birth defects and offer your time as a volunteer. This is a great way to give back and show support for March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month is Important

It raises funds for research and support services

The March of Dimes holds various events throughout the month to raise funds for research into preventing birth defects and supporting families affected by them. This provides important resources for families in need and helps drive progress towards finding solutions and improving outcomes for those affected by birth defects.

It helps raise awareness about birth defects

March of Dimes Birth Defects Prevention Month is an important time to spread information and educate people about the prevalence and impact of birth defects. By shining a spotlight on this issue, we can work towards prevention and better support for individuals and families affected by birth defects.

It highlights the importance of prenatal care

Many birth defects can be prevented or detected early through proper prenatal care. The March of Dimes uses this month to emphasize the importance of regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, and genetic testing for expecting mothers to help prevent birth defects and ensure the health of both mother and baby.

Related holidays

National Birth Defects Prevention Month

Join the fight this National Birth Defects Prevention Month by spreading awareness and supporting organizations that work towards prevention!

International Prenatal Infection Prevention Month

This month, join us in spreading awareness about the importance of preventing prenatal infections for a healthy and happy pregnancy!

National Pre-Pregnancy Awareness Month

Get ready for the journey of a lifetime - it's National Pre-Pregnancy Awareness Month! Learn about fertility, health, and wellness tips to prepare for parenthood.

World Prematurity Day

Show your support for World Prematurity Day and join the fight to help premature babies with donations, volunteering, or raising awareness!

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