Birth prevalence of congenital heart defects in Western Australia, 1990-2016

To describe the birth prevalence and characteristics of congenital heart defects in a geographically defined Australian population.

This descriptive, population-based study examined congenital heart defects in live births, stillbirths and pregnancy terminations ascertained by the Western Australian Register of Developmental Anomalies, 1990-2016. Birth prevalence (per 1000 births) was stratified by severity, known cause, maternal and birth characteristics, and primary diagnosis; and prevalence ratios were calculated for Aboriginal versus non-Aboriginal births. Temporal trends in prevalence, diagnosis age and infant mortality were examined.

For births 1990-2010 (allowing 6 years for complete case ascertainment by 2016), 6419 cases were identified; prevalence was 11.5 per 1000 births (95% confidence interval (CI), 11.2-11.8). Severe defects were ascertained in 2.5 per 1000 births (95% CI 2.4-2.7). Most cases were liveborn (5842, 91.0%), and 28.9% had other birth defects. Prevalence was slightly higher in Aboriginal births (prevalence ratio 1.1; 95% CI 1.0-1.2); and the infant mortality rate more than doubled (13.4% vs. 5.8%, P < 0.001). Prenatal diagnosis increased over time but, in remote areas, was significantly lower for Aboriginal versus non-Aboriginal cases (3.1% vs. 9.3%; P = 0.008). A cause was identified in 920 cases (14.3%), more often for severe defects (347, 24.4%); 63% of known causes were rare diseases. Congenital heart defects associated with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder were much more common in Aboriginal births (prevalence ratio 82; 95% CI 28-239).

Earlier detection of congenital heart defects and improved survival has occurred over time, although discrepancies between ethnic groups and regions warrant further investigation and strategic action.