| − | A '''birth defect''' is a structural, functional, or metabolic abnormality present at birth that results in physical or mental disability or is fatal. There are more than 4,000 known birth defects, which may be caused by [[gene|genetic]] or [[environment|environmental]] factors. About 150,000 babies are born each year with birth defects. Birth defects have become a major argument advancing the theory of [[Intelligent Design]]. Currently, [[evolution]] has no credible explanation for the development of birth defects as a trait. | + | A '''birth defect''' is a structural, functional, or metabolic abnormality present at birth that results in physical or mental disability or is fatal. There are more than 4,000 known birth defects, which may be caused by [[gene|genetic]] or [[environment|environmental]] factors. About 150,000 babies are born each year with birth defects. |