Frequency Risk Factors and Pattern of Congenital Anomalies in Neonates in Nawabshah Pakistan

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine the frequency, risk factors and pattern of congenital anomalies in neonates admitted at a tertiary care hospital.

Methodology: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Research was conducted at NICU Pediatric ward, PMCH Nawabshah. Duration of study was 6 months after the approval of synopsis from January 2020 to July 2020. This study involved 300 neonates in NICU which were screened for congenital anomalies. Age, gender and birth weight of the neonate was recorded. Mothers were also enquired about consanguinity and use of folic acid and smoking and diabetic status during pregnancy. Frequency and type of birth defect were noted and were compared across various subgroups based on various neonatal and maternal factors.

Results: The mean age of the neonates was 10.5±7.4 days while the mean birth weight was 2.89±0.74 Kg. There were 174 (58.0%) male and 126 (42.0%) female neonates with a male to female ratio of 1.4:1. 77 (25.7%) neonates were low birth weight. Birth defect was noted in 35 (11.7%) neonates. 3 neonates had multiple anomalies. The frequency of birth defects was significantly higher in women with no use of folic acid during pregnancy (14.8% vs. 5.2%; p-value=0.015) and cousin marriage (16.6% vs. 2.8%; p-value<0.001).

Conclusion: In the present study, 11.7% of neonates had birth defects comprising of congenital hydrocele, spina bifida, cleft lip/palate and club foot that were associated with lack of folic acid use during pregnancy and cousin marriages. Public awareness against cousin marriages and antenatal counseling of mothers for routine folic acid use during pregnancy should be assured for this.