Obstetric Ultrasound Screening in a Rural Area of Lebanon One Small Step With a Promising Major Impact.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Medical Imaging
• Public Health

Background:

• Underserved rural areas in Lebanon, particularly those hosting refugees, often lack adequate prenatal care.
• Obstetrical ultrasound screening is crucial for early detection of fetal abnormalities and complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and impact of an obstetrical ultrasound screening program in a rural Lebanese region with a refugee population.
• To assess the prevalence of fetal anomalies and identify pregnancies requiring follow-up.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in rural North Lebanon.
• Monthly second-trimester obstetrical ultrasounds were offered to pregnant patients over one year.
• Population characteristics, discovered anomalies, and follow-up needs were documented.

Main Results:

• 268 ultrasounds were performed; 35.8% of pregnancies required follow-up for abnormalities.
• Identified issues included inaccurate dating (8.6%), growth abnormalities (20%), and morphological defects (12%).
• Common morphological defects involved renal, neurological, and cardiac systems.

Conclusions:

• Prenatal ultrasound screening is essential in rural Lebanese areas with refugee populations.
• The intervention identified significant risks, with 35.8% of pregnancies needing follow-up.
• Implementing such programs can improve pregnancy outcomes in vulnerable populations.