Which of the following statements about Cleft Palate is false?

The statement that cleft palate is more common in males than females is false. Epidemiological studies indicate that cleft palate occurs more frequently in females than in males, although cleft lip (which can occur with or without cleft palate) is more prevalent in males. This distinction is important in understanding the demographic trends associated with cleft conditions.

The other statements are true. Cleft palates can indeed be submucous, meaning they may not be apparent on external examination, as the cleft is covered by a layer of mucosa. Additionally, individuals with a cleft palate often face various complications, including speech defects due to the altered structure of the palate, orthodontic issues stemming from misalignment of teeth, and a higher risk of hearing loss due to Eustachian tube dysfunction. Furthermore, it is well-documented that patients with cleft palate have a higher incidence of cardiovascular defects than the general population, highlighting the importance of comprehensive care and monitoring for these patients.