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Alberta Congenital Anomalies Surveillance System
R B Lowry1, N Y Thunem, S Anderson-Redick
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Calgary, Alta.
Summary
Established in 1966, the Alberta Congenital Anomalies Surveillance System provides crucial baseline data for tracking birth defects. This system helps measure prevention progress and test hypotheses on anomaly causation.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- The Alberta Congenital Anomalies Surveillance System (ACASS) was initiated in 1966 following the thalidomide tragedy.
- ACASS is a key component of Canada's national surveillance network for congenital anomalies.
- Data collection has evolved, incorporating multiple notification sources to enhance accuracy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present congenital anomaly data from Alberta for the 1980-1986 period.
- To compare prevalence rates of selected anomalies with other provincial surveillance systems.
- To highlight the value of surveillance systems in understanding anomaly trends and prevention.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing data from the Alberta Congenital Anomalies Surveillance System.
- Analyzing birth notices, death certificates, and stillbirth certificates for anomaly ascertainment.
- Comparing prevalence rates from ACASS (1980-86) with three other provincial surveillance systems.
Main Results:
- Presents congenital anomaly data for Alberta between 1980 and 1986.
- Compares prevalence rates of specific anomalies with data from three other surveillance systems.
- Demonstrates improvements in data quality through expanded ascertainment sources.
Conclusions:
- Congenital anomaly surveillance systems are invaluable for establishing baseline data and identifying trends.
- While not guaranteeing detection of new teratogens, these systems aid in hypothesis testing for causation.
- Surveillance systems are essential tools for measuring progress in the prevention of congenital anomalies.