A Multisite Study of Oral Clefts and Associated Abnormalities in Thailand: The Epidemiologic Data

Bowornsilp Chowchuen1, Sanguansak Thanaviratananich1, Vichai Chichareon1

  • 1Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand; Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkla, Thailand; Surgical Unit, Sara Buri Hospital, Sara Buri, Thailand; Surgical Unit, Buddhachinaraj Hospital, Phitsanulok, Thailand; and Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.

Insights

This study investigated birth defects like cleft lip and/or cleft palate (CLP) in Thailand. The overall incidence was 1.51 per 1000 live births, with regional variations noted.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Cleft lip and/or cleft palate (CLP) are common congenital anomalies.
  • Understanding the epidemiological data and risk factors for CLP is crucial for public health initiatives.
  • Previous data on CLP incidence in Thailand is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the birth incidence of cleft lip and/or cleft palate (CLP) in the Thai population.
  • To identify associated risk factors for CLP births.
  • To analyze the geographical distribution of CLP births.

Main Methods:

  • Data collected over 12 months (2003-2004) from all hospitals in 6 provinces across 4 regions of Thailand.
  • Infant deliveries with CLP and associated risk factors were recorded.
  • Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to analyze birth incidence, related factors, and geographical linkage.

Main Results:

  • Overall CLP birth incidence was 1.51 per 1000 live births.
  • Higher incidences observed in Phitsanulok (2.01), Saraburi (1.69), and Khon Kaen (1.66) provinces.
  • Northeast region showed variations in gestational age and higher maternal vitamin A intake; folic acid supplementation was low across all regions.

Conclusions:

  • Varied incidence suggests potential issues with case ascertainment accuracy.
  • Geographic Information System (GIS) proved valuable for background investigation and planning cleft care.
  • The study provides a foundation for future etiological research and the establishment of birth registries for CLP.
Abstract

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