Congenital Malformations: Incidence and Prevalence in the Department of Caldas, Colombia 2016-2017

Abstract

Introduction. Congenital malformations are routinely monitored; however further analysis of risk factors is required. The objective was to determine the incidence and prevalence of congenital malformations for the 2016-2017 period in Caldas and to explore the maternal risk factors. Methodology. A retrospective and descriptive study with a secondary source of information based on the cases notified by Caldas to the National Public Health Surveillance System of Colombia in the 2016-2017 period. Results. Between 2016-2017, 18,979 births occurred in Caldas, of which 282 had congenital malformations, with a prevalence of 14.8 per 1,000 live births. The highest frequency of malformations was found in the osteomuscular system with 101 cases (35.8%), followed by the central nervous system with 43 cases (15.2%). The mothers' mean age was 26.2 SD=7.2 years. A statistically significant association was found between the type of congenital malformation and maternal age (P <0.05), when the ages of between 21 to 33 years were excluded from the analysis. Discussion. The coverage of population reports has increased from local hospital levels to the national level. The need to go beyond monitoring to an in-depth analysis of risk factors is evident. Conclusions. The incidence and prevalence of congenital malformations in Caldas follows the national and regional trend. Maternal age is a sensitive risk factor for the primary prevention of congenital malformations.