Congenital abnormalities in the African newborn

Abstract

The first series describing congenital abnormalities in African newborn babies is presented. The total incidence of malformed children is 5-4%; this is similar to the rate for other races. There are, however, striking differences in the incidence of particular malformations. Very few severe abnormalities of the central nervous system such as anencephaly, spina bifida and hydrocephalus are encountered. There are many more examples of polydactyly and prehelicine fistulae than are seen elsewhere.