The NBDPS is a national study to discover clues about what causes birth defects.

The study is being conducted in 9 states across the U.S.

There are two parts to the study: a telephone interview and cheek cell collection.

The study started in 1997 and is ongoing.

Over 35,000 women have participated in the study.

The NBDPS is a voluntary study. You can choose not to participate. This decision will not affect the care or services that you or your family receives.

Answers from the phone interview and results of genetic tests are confidential. Your identity will remain private.

The study is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).