Since 2000, Smile Train has supported more than 700,000 cleft surgeries across India
NEW DELHI: Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused NGO, released an in-depth assessment report today showcasing the transformative impact of Smile Train’s cleft care interventions across the country in twenty years. Compiling data collected by consulting firm KPMG. The report deployed three research methodologies to get a holistic view of the social impact of Smile Train’s programs supporting cleft care over two decades. The report also highlights the USD 16 billion impact created in India through Smile Train’s investment in cleft treatment since 2000.
Since 2000, Smile Train has supported more than Seven Lakh cleft surgeries across India. The key findings from the study reinforce that Smile Train’s program in India is aligned with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and national priorities. It demonstrates the positive impact of Smile Train’s support in improving access to cleft treatment, enhancing hospital infrastructure, and positively influencing patients’ quality of life. All respondents indicated that Smile Train India’s support was crucial in addressing the challenges faced by individuals with clefts and their families.
Susannah Schaefer, Executive Vice Chair, President & CEO of Smile Train, stated, “As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Smile Train’s founding as a global nonprofit, I want to take a moment to reflect on two-and-a-half decades of remarkable achievements. Since its inception, our goal has always been to provide comprehensive and sustainable cleft care. To commemorate this milestone, we commissioned two significant studies: an Economic Impact Study to analyze our work’s impact on the global economy, and the India-specific Quality of Life and Impact Report to understand how our support has impacted the lives of individuals with clefts and their families. The findings underscore the importance of our work and the need to continue expanding our reach to underserved communities as well as create a sustainable cleft infrastructure with critical partnerships and training.”
Speaking at the occasion, Mamta Carroll, Senior Vice President, and Regional Director of Asia, Smile Train said, “We are immensely proud to present Smile Train India’s “Quality of Life and Impact Report,” which encapsulates 20 years of our transformative work and its profound impact on the lives of countless individuals, including the medical community. This report marks a significant milestone in our unwavering commitment to equitable cleft care across India. The findings highlight Smile Train’s pivotal role in bridging gaps in cleft care, from improving medical infrastructure to supporting underserved communities.”
The cleft is a gap in the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth (palate) and is a facial birth difference that affects one in 700 babies. An untreated cleft condition not only leads to facial differences in appearance, but health challenges related to eating, breathing, hearing, and speaking. Many children with clefts get bullied in schools and colleges and end up living in isolation.
