Frequency of Congenital Anomalies in New Born & Associated Maternal Risk Factors in the Rural Setup of Nawabshah

Abstract

Objective: To determine the frequency of congenital anomalies alongwith the assessment of maternal risk factors.

Study Design: Cross sectional observational study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at PUMHS Hospital Nawabshah from 01.01.2010 to 31.12.2011.

Materials and Methods: This cross sectional observational study was conducted in the Department of Obs & Gynae, PUMHS Hospital Nawabshah. All the newborn delivered with CA during the specified time comprised the study group. The study population was evaluated according to maternal demographic features like age, gestational age, BMI, birth order and consanguinity. Significant maternal illness, BOH, diabetes mellitus, drug ingestion, smoking and exposure to radiation were recorded. All the newborns were examined by Paediatricians and anomalies were recorded. Mean ± SD were used for age & parity and frequency, pattern of CA alongwith associated maternal risk factor described in number and percentage.

Result: During the study period, 11608 babies were born in which 178 showed evidence of CA giving a frequency of 15.33 / 1000 births. The mean maternal age was 32.24 years while the mean parity was 3.6. Consanguinity was the most significant factor (48.31 %) followed by BOH (14.60 %). Diabetes mellitus was found in 10.67 % while past history of CA was found in 7.30 %. Multiple risk factors were responsible in 9.55 % of cases. Regarding the systemic involvement, CNS anomalies contribute 35.39 %, GIT 18.53 %, muscular skeleton 14.04 % and urogenital 13.43 %. 57.30 % babies were stillborn while 43 % died in early neonatal period and 33 % were referred to Paediatrics ward for further management.

Conclusion: Congenital anomaly is an important cause of perinatal mortality. Its elimination need health education programmes, folic acid supplementation, early recognition by 3D ultrasound and termination in those cases which are not compatible with life.