What type of defects are known as hereditary defects?

Hereditary defects are primarily referred to as genetic defects, which arise from mutations in genes that can be passed down from parents to their offspring. These genetic changes can occur in various forms, including single-gene mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, or a combination of multiple gene interactions that lead to inherited conditions. Because these defects originate from genetic material, they can manifest in individuals as a result of lineage rather than exposure or injury.

In contrast, infections acquired at birth, environmental defects, and injuries sustained at birth do not originate from genetic sources. Instead, they are influenced by external factors or circumstances surrounding the birth process. Thus, identifying hereditary defects specifically as genetic defects highlights the critical role of genetics in understanding the origins of certain health conditions.