Epidemiology characteristics of birth defects in Shenzhen city during 2003 to 2009, China

To explore the epidemiology characteristics of birth defects (BDs) in perinatal infants in Longgang District, Shenzhen City.

Data used in this study was obtained from birth defects surveillance network during 2003 to 2009. The prevalence with 95% confidence interval of BDs by year, gender, household registration and type were examined. Cochran-Armitage trend tests were conducted to evaluate the tendency by year.

The overall prevalence of BDs in Longgang District was 13.43 (12.92, 13.95) per 1000 live births and there was an increasing trend from 2003 to 2009 in migrant and permanent population. Furthermore, the migrant population and male infant had a higher prevalence, OR = 1.22(1.09, 1.37), 1.21(1.11, 1.31) respectively. Congenital heart disease was the most common birth defect.

Shenzhen city is confronted with severe challenges to prevent BDs. The preventive program of BDs, especially for the migrant population, should be better performed.