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Impact of major congenital anomalies on preterm birth and low birth weight

Hiba Adam1, Nadirah Ghenimi2, Anne F Minsart3

  • 1Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 15551, Al Ain, UAE. 202190143@uaeu.ac.ae.

Scientific Reports
|July 10, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Major congenital anomalies (MCAs) significantly increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight in newborns. Early detection and multidisciplinary care are crucial for improving outcomes in affected infants.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Health
  • Congenital Anomalies Research
  • Perinatal Epidemiology

Background:

  • Major congenital anomalies (MCAs) are a leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality, particularly in premature and low birth weight infants.
  • The relationship between MCAs, preterm birth, and low birth weight requires further investigation to optimize clinical management.
  • Understanding these associations is critical for developing targeted interventions and improving neonatal outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of MCAs on preterm birth and low birth weight in the Emirati population.
  • To quantify the association between the presence and number of MCAs and adverse neonatal outcomes.
  • To provide evidence for refining management strategies for neonates with congenital anomalies.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of singleton live births from the Mutaba'ah study (2017-2023).
  • Utilized regression models to assess the association between MCAs and preterm birth/low birth weight.
  • Adjusted for key maternal and neonatal characteristics to isolate the effect of MCAs.

Main Results:

  • Neonates with any MCAs showed doubled odds of preterm birth (AOR: 2.0) and low birth weight (AOR: 2.2).
  • Multiple MCAs were associated with substantially higher odds of preterm birth (AOR: 5.3) and low birth weight (AOR: 3.5).
  • Significant associations were observed even after adjusting for confounding factors.

Conclusions:

  • MCAs are strongly linked to increased risks of preterm birth and low birth weight in the Emirati population.
  • The findings underscore the need for proactive and multidisciplinary care approaches for neonates with MCAs.
  • Further research and enhanced surveillance are recommended to improve health outcomes for this vulnerable group.

Keywords:
CohortLow birth weightMajor congenital anomaliesNeonatesPerinatalPreterm birthUnited Arab Emirates

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