Publication:

Early detection of congenital anomalies in newborns: a tertiary hospital's approach to screening and risk assessment

Background The spectrum of congenital anomalies ranges from minor issues like polydactyly to conditions unsustainable with life like anencephaly. The impact is on the affected children, parents or caregivers and the society at large. The most dreaded concern is death of the child. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of congenital anomalies and associated risk factors among neonates in a tertiary care hospital in Bengaluru, India.

Methods A cross-sectional analysis was conducted over six months, involving 202 neonates. Data were collected via validated questionnaires covering socio-demographic details, comprehensive antenatal history, birth history, and the presence of congenital anomalies. Settings and design was hospital-based cross-sectional study. Statistical analysis used: The association between risk factors and congenital anomalies was assessed using Chi-square tests and Odds ratios.

Results Out of 202 neonates included, the proportion of congenital anomalies was 8.4% (17) with congenital heart diseases (07) being the commonest followed by congenital talipes equino varus (CTEV) (04). Foetal risk factors for disability were observed among 93 (46%) of the neonates. Common neonatal risk factors observed were neonatal jaundice, Low Birth Weight, prematurity and neonatal asphyxia. Congenital anomalies were slightly higher among boys: 13 (11.7%) than girls: 4 (4.3%). Proportion of foetal risk factors was similar among boys and girls.

Conclusions The study highlights a higher prevalence of congenital anomalies than the national average, emphasizing the need for mandatory congenital anomaly screening and establishing a comprehensive congenital malformation registry in India.