Publication:

Correlation between occurrence of natural phenomena and incidence of two specific cyanotic congenital heart diseases: an exploratory study

Background Cyanotic congenital heart disease (CCHD), like transposition of the great arteries (TGA) and total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC), arise from abnormal cardiac development during embryogenesis. While genetic and environmental factors are well-known, the influence of natural astronomical phenomena, such as the lunar cycle and eclipses, remains unexplored. This study evaluates a possible correlation between these events and the incidence of TGA and TAPVC.

Methods Hospital records from 2020–2022 were reviewed to identify cases of TGA and TAPVC. The estimated conception period was calculated based on gestational age at birth. This period was then compared with the dates of natural astronomical events, like new moon, full moon, and eclipse (solar and lunar). The frequency of cases conceived during these events was analyzed for potential associations.

Results Amongst 29 cases of TGA, 10 (34.4%) were conceived during an astronomical event, with 7 (24.1%) around the new moon period. Of the 49 TAPVC cases, 19 (38.7%) coincided with similar events, including 17 (34.7%) around the new moon period.

Conclusions There is a positive correlation in the incidence of TGA and TAPVC in the offspring if conceived during the period of new moon. While preliminary, this warrants further prospective studies to explore astronomical influences on congenital heart disease.