ABSTRACT
Background: Congenital heart defects [CHDs] are significant drivers of mortality and morbidity in children, folic acid supplementation for the pregnant month during or before delivery is said to influence risk reduction of congenital heart defects [CHDs]. However, there are controversial claims and the hypothesis is concluded from limited epidemiologic studies
Aim of the Study: Conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies to reliably evaluate the correlation between Folic acid or multivitamins containing FA supplementation taken during pregnancy and the risk of CHDs
Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. PUBMED and EMBASE were searched to identify prospective cohort and case-control studies that had reported on the association between 1960 and 2017. Studies conducted in primarily high-risk populations [Case control and cohort studies] while participants in randomized controlled trials were excluded
Results: The search yielded 10 studies published between 2000 and 2013 enrolling 13126 female participants. These studies included only one cohort study, and nine case-control studies. The overall results of this meta-analysis provide evidence that maternal folate supplementation is associated with a significantly decreased risk of CHDs [RR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.54-0.84]. Statistically significant heterogeneity was detected [Q = 79.43, P < 0.001, I2 = 70.2%]
Conclusion: FA supplementation during pregnancy significantly decreases the risk of CHDs in newborns
ABSTRACT
Background: Among hormone deficiency, hypothyroidism is considered to be the most common disease, and is subdivided into congenital or acquired, based on the onset. The exact site of dysfunction can further classify the disease into primary and secondary. It is crucial to determine the level of severity of the disease as severe cases may end up in a coma. On the other hand, mild cases may be asymptomatic. Diagnosis is mainly based on serum thyroid hormones levels, and the treatment depends on thyroxine administration with an excellent prognosis
Aim of this review: was to explore the types of hypothyroidism, its diagnosis, and study the best course of management that must be followed
Methodology: We conducted this review using a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE, January 1985, through February 2017. The following search terms were used: hypothyroidism, myxedema, classification of thyroid diseases, investigation of hypothyroidism, management of hypothyroidism
Conclusion: Hypothyroidism is a common disease that usually affects females more than males. Populations at higher risk include, old women, pregnant women, dyslipidemic patients, and patients with a history of radiation exposure. Diagnosis is based on measurement of TSH along with the thyroid hormone levels. Management includes administration of thyroxine, and must be done early