Incidence and associated factors of major congenital anomalies in newborns in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Southwest of Iran

Abstract

Background: Congenital anomalies are among the causes of disability and death in infants. This study aimed to determine the incidence of major congenital anomalies (MCA) recorded at birth and also their relationship with some related factors in neonates born. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, all infants born from March 2016 to March 2017 in the hospitals of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province were evaluated for MCA at birth. Information recorded in the medical file including parent and infant characteristics is extracted from the maternal and newborn electronic files. Data were analyzed using Generalized Linear Model with function of Poisson. Results: Of the 19666 newborns studied, 63 (3.2 per 1000) had MCAs at birth. Variables such as number of pregnancies, parity, gestational age, neonatal birth weight, height, and head circumference were found to be significantly associated with MCA based on the crude model (P value < 0.05). Using adjusted model 1, the incidence of MCA was found to be significantly related to mother's place of residency and her parity. Finally, in adjusted model 2, the incidence of MCA was found to be related to gestational age, neonatal birth weight, and head circumference. Conclusions: In some MCA, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent disability. Consequently, the emphasis on public education to consider appropriate gestational age, proper nutrition before and during pregnancy, and prenatal care is necessary to inhibit MCA.