Analytic study of congenital malformations in four hospitals in Baghdad

ABSTRACT

Congenital malformations are responsible for a considerable proportion of perinatal, neonatal and infant mortality in many Eastern Mediterranean countries. So this study aims to find out the incidence, types and probable risk factors of these malformations in Baghdad. One hundred cases of congenital malformations were studied out of 8090 neonates born in 4 hospitals in Baghdad province over 5 months in 2002 [preterm. term]. The incidence, types and risk factors were analysed. The incidence of congenital malformations was 12.36/ 1000 live births, with the central nervous system malformations being the commonest. There is increased risk in consanguineous marriages 27 [27%], mothers not attending antenatal care 25 [25%], mothers of low gravidity 60 [60%], and mothers not taking folic acid during pregnancy [86.7%]. Consanguineous marriages and mothers not taking folic acid during pregnancy are important risk factors for the occurrence of congenital malformations. So I recommend genetic counseling especially for consanguineous marriages, and giving all pregnant women folic acid before and during pregnancy. A multicentre study will give more broad idea about the incidence, types, and risk factors in our country