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Surgically Correctable Congenital Anomalies: Reducing Morbidity and Mortality in the First 8000 Days of Life
Tahmina Banu1, Shilpa Sharma2, Tanvir Kabir Chowdhury3
1Chittagong Research Institute for Children Surgery (CRICS), Panchlaish, Chittagong, 4203, Bangladesh. proftahmina@gmail.com.
Background:
Congenital anomalies are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. We aimed to review the common surgically correctable congenital anomalies with recent updates on the global disease burden and identify the factors affecting morbidity and mortality.
Method:
A literature review was done to assess the burden of surgical congenital anomalies with emphasis on those that present within the first 8000 days of life. The various patterns of diseases were analyzed in both low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) and high-income countries (HIC).
Results:
Surgical problems such as digestive congenital anomalies, congenital heart disease and neural tube defects are now seen more frequently. The burden of disease weighs more heavily on LMIC. Cleft lip and palate has gained attention and appropriate treatment within many countries, and its care has been strengthened by global surgical partnerships. Antenatal scans and timely diagnosis are important factors affecting morbidity and mortality. The frequency of pregnancy termination following prenatal diagnosis of a congenital anomaly is lower in many LMIC than in HIC.
Conclusion:
Congenital heart disease and neural tube defects are the most common congenital surgical diseases; however, easily treatable gastrointestinal anomalies are underdiagnosed due to the invisible nature of the condition. Current healthcare systems in most LMICs are still unprepared to tackle the burden of disease caused by congenital anomalies. Increased investment in surgical services is needed.
Insights
Congenital anomalies pose a significant global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Early diagnosis and increased investment in surgical services are crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality from these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Pediatric Surgery
- Public Health
Background:
- Congenital anomalies are a major cause of illness and death globally.
- This review focuses on surgically correctable anomalies presenting within the first 8000 days of life.
- The study examines disease patterns in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) versus high-income countries (HIC).
Approach:
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
- The global disease burden of surgical congenital anomalies was assessed.
- Factors influencing morbidity and mortality were identified.
Key Points:
- Digestive anomalies, congenital heart disease, and neural tube defects are common surgical issues.
- The disease burden disproportionately affects LMICs.
- Antenatal diagnosis and timely treatment significantly impact outcomes, with lower termination rates in LMICs.
Conclusions:
- Congenital heart disease and neural tube defects are most frequent; gastrointestinal anomalies are often underdiagnosed.
- Healthcare systems in LMICs require strengthening to manage congenital anomalies.
- Increased investment in surgical services is essential to address the global burden.
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