Characterization of prenatal exposure variables in a group of children aged 0-5 years with congenital heart defect treated in cali, colombia. The importance of folic acid

Abstract

Introduction: Congenital heart defects (CHD) have an estimated prevalence of 4 to 9 cases per 1 000 births, and they have a significant impact on child morbidity and mortality. This prevalence variability has been attributed to regional differences in terms of genetic and environmental factors, among others. Objective: To obtain data on prenatal exposure variables of patients with CHD treated in Cali, Colombia. Materials and methods: A survey was administered to the mothers of 30 children aged 0 to 5 years with CDH treated in 2 health institutions of Cali, Colombia. The instrument was oriented to collect data on multiple prenatal exposure variables, and data collected were entered into an Excel database in order to analyze them using descriptive statistics. Results: Several types of exposure potentially associated with having CHD were found, including altered body mass index, inadequate administration of folic acid, and being exposed to X-rays, vitamin A, alcohol and tobacco. Conclusion: Insufficient or untimely administration of folic acid could facilitate the development of teratogenic effects of oxidizing agents. Therefore, education programs on the importance of a proper intake of folic acid and the risks derived from exposure to teratogenic agents during pregnancy should be provided to all pregnant women in Cali to reduce the incidence rate of CHD in the city.