Birth defects and epidemiological factors in Tunisia

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Public Health
• Genetics

Background:

• Birth defects represent a significant global health concern.
• Accurate epidemiological data is crucial for understanding and addressing congenital anomalies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and categorize birth defects in Tunisia.
• To investigate epidemiological factors associated with congenital anomalies.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of 2489 malformed cases (fetuses, stillborns, deceased newborns) was conducted.
• Data was collected from the embryo-fetopathology department of a maternity and neonatology center in Tunis.

Main Results:

• Neurological (26.01%), nephro-urological (13.16%), and cardiovascular (11.47%) anomalies were the most prevalent birth defects.
• Maternal age averaged 30.1 years, with high rates of parental consanguinity (37.4%) and reproductive failure history (32.5%).
• 164 polymalformative syndromes and 217 chromosomal aberrations were identified.

Conclusions:

• The study provides valuable insights into birth defect patterns and epidemiological factors in Tunisia.
• The absence of a national birth defect registry hinders comprehensive statistics.
• A national multicenter study is recommended to establish an accurate national register.