Persistence of perinatal mortality due to congenital malformations in resource-poor settings

S Chhabra1, R Darwade, K Dhawde

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram, Wardha, Maharashtra, India. chhabra_s@rediffmail.com

Insights

Major congenital malformations (MCM) contribute to perinatal mortality (PM), with trends showing a decrease in overall MCM impact but an increase in congenital heart disease deaths. Early diagnosis is crucial for prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Research
  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Major congenital malformations (MCM) cause significant life-threatening conditions in newborns annually.
  • Perinatal mortality (PM) remains a critical concern, with MCM being a contributing factor.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze trends in perinatal mortality (PM) attributed to major congenital malformations (MCM) over 24 years.
  • To identify preventive strategies for MCM-related perinatal deaths in a rural setting.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of perinatal death records due to MCM over a 24-year period.
  • Categorization of deaths into stillbirths and neonatal deaths.
  • Trend analysis of MCM contribution to PM and specific anomaly types over time.

Main Results:

  • A total of 346 perinatal deaths (PD) were attributed to MCM, representing 8.3% of all PD.
  • A decreasing trend in the contribution of MCM to PM was observed (9.52% to 6.95%).
  • Nervous system anomalies showed a decreasing trend (3.76% to 2.02%), while congenital heart disease showed an increasing trend (0.87% to 6.94%).

Conclusions:

  • While overall MCM contribution to PM is decreasing, specific conditions like congenital heart disease are rising.
  • Implementing systems for early MCM diagnosis during gestation is essential for potential interventions.
  • Continued research into the prevention of congenital anomalies is vital.

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