Birth prevalence of Down syndrome in Argentina

The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence at birth of Down syndrome in Argentina. The prevalence by jurisdiction and maternal age was calculated for the 2009-2015 period and the prevalence and proportion of prenatal diagnosis was compared according to sub-sector (public and private) and complexity level of the maternity wards. The association of Down syndrome with birth weight and gestational age was analyzed. The data source was the National Network of Congenital Anomalies of Argentina [Red Nacional de Anomalías Congénitas] (RENAC). The prevalence was 17.26 per 10,000 births; by jurisdictions it varied between 10.99 and 23.71; and by maternal age, between 10.32 in women <20 years of age and 158.06 in those ≥45 years of age. In hospitals of the private subsector there was a higher prevalence, attributable to differences in the structure of maternal age, and a greater proportion of prenatal diagnosis. There was a negative correlation between birth weight and Down syndrome (ß=-294.7; p<0.001). No difference in the median gestational age at birth between Down syndrome newborns and newborns without major anomalies was found, but the distribution of gestational age differed. Knowledge of certain epidemiological characteristics of this health issue could contribute to the implementation of health policies.