What causes cleft palate? Is it a genetic disease?

A cleft palate is a birth defect that occurs when the roof of the mouth doesn't form properly. Cleft palate affects about one in 700 babies born in the United States each year. Cleft palate occurs more often in boys than girls. The exact cause of cleft palate isn't known, but it's believed to be the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some babies with cleft palate are born to parents who have no history of the condition, while other babies have family members with cleft palate or other craniofacial anomalies. Treatment for cleft palate often includes surgery to close the opening in the roof of the mouth, as well as speech therapy and other interventions. In most cases, cleft palate can be successfully treated, and affected children can go on to lead healthy, normal lives.