[Neural-Tube Defects mortality in children under 5 years of age in Mexico, 1998 to 2006]

To analyze mortality due to neural-tube defects (NTD) in children under 5 years of age, 1998-2006 and select priority municipalities and compare them to those selected for birth defects (BD).

Sources of data were the Secretary of Health and the National Institute of Statistics and Geography. Spatial analysis was used to select municipalities and criteria were based on percentiles.

Deaths due to NTD represented 39.63% - 56.91% of nervous system defects and decreased 53%; the rate decreased 59%. Regarding deaths, 86-93% occurred in children under 5 years of age. The rate for children under 1 year of age decreased 51%, and 60% for 1-4 years of age. A total of 205 municipalities resulted in being high priority, where 63.23% of deaths were concentrated. The Kappa index between BD/NTD priority municipalities was 0.75.

Actions against NTD should be emphasized in the selected municipalities.