A population-based study of birth defects in Malaysia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Medical Genetics

Background:

• Birth defects are a major cause of childhood disability and death globally.
• Limited epidemiological data exists for birth defects in developing nations.
• Population-based studies are crucial for understanding local birth defect patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the epidemiology of major birth defects in the perinatal period in Kinta district, Perak, Malaysia.
• To establish the incidence and prevalence of major birth defects.
• To identify associated risk factors and outcomes in affected newborns.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a population-based birth defect register over a 14-month period.
• Collected data on 17,720 births, identifying 253 cases of major birth defects.
• Analyzed organ system involvement, maternal factors, and perinatal outcomes.

Main Results:

• The incidence of major birth defects was 14.3 per 1000 births (1 in 70).
• Cardiovascular, cleft lip/palate, and central nervous system defects were most prevalent.
• Affected infants experienced higher rates of low birth weight, prematurity, prolonged hospitalization, and a 25.2% perinatal mortality rate.
• Maternal factors included advanced age, previous abortions, and a higher consanguinity rate (2.4%).

Conclusions:

• A robust birth defect register is essential for ongoing monitoring in Malaysia.
• Further interventional studies are needed to reduce the burden of birth defects.
• Understanding local epidemiology is key to developing targeted prevention and management strategies.