Associated factors with the development of congenital anomalies in the neonatal population attended in a highly complex hospital in Colombia: case-control study

Abstract

Introduction: Congenital defects are a group of alterations with great clinical and etiological heterogeneity.The prevalence in developing countries is approximately 7%. In Colombia, 17% of children under 1 year of age die from congenital anomalies. Objective: To determine the risk factors associated with congenital anomalies in neonates from the Department of Cauca treated in a highly complex hospital. Method: Case-control study at the San José de Popayan University Hospital, Colombia. 174 newborns entered the study, with a 1: 1 distribution for 87 cases and 87 controls, between July 2018 and July 2019.The variables of interest were recorded in a semi-structured instrument designed by the researchers.The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods, Fisher’s exact test and binomial logistic regression models (OR with 95% CI). Results: The most frequent congenital anomalies were those of the cardiovascular system (40.23%), renal (24.14%) and central nervous system (13.79%).The variables associated with congenital anomalies were mother’s education (OR 2.40; 95% CI: 1.23-4.68), father’s education (OR 2.93 95% CI: 1.44-5.93), history of cesarean section (OR 3.3 CI 95%: 1.76-6.42), first trimester bleeding (OR 6.15 95% CI: 1.32-28.63); history of malformation (OR: 4,05; 95% CI: 1.08-15.07). Conclusions: Based on the results of the present study and to try to reduce the incidence of congenital anomalies, modifiable risk factors should be intervened, such as parental education, timely treatment of maternal pathologies associated with 1-trimester bleeding and perform genetic counseling to parents with a history of congenital anomalies in previous pregnancies.This could be achieved by improving quality and adherence to prenatal care.