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An epidemiological study of congenital malformations in rural children
V Kumar1, A J Singh, R K Marwaha
1Department of Pediatrics and Community Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh.
Insights
Congenital malformations affect 22 in 1000 children aged 0-6 years in Ambala. Cardiovascular issues were most common, with limited etiological factors identified and few parents seeking treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Medical Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Congenital malformations represent a significant global health concern.
- Early identification and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes in affected children.
- Data on the prevalence and types of congenital anomalies in rural Indian populations remain limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and patterns of congenital malformations in young children (0-6 years) in rural Ambala.
- To identify common types of malformations and potential etiological factors.
- To assess the role of community health workers in case detection.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional screening study was conducted in six villages of Ambala District.
- 1371 children aged 0-6 years were examined for congenital malformations.
- Data on malformation types, severity, and potential etiological factors were collected.
Main Results:
- A prevalence of 22 congenital malformations per 1000 children was observed (30 out of 1371).
- Cardiovascular anomalies were most frequent (37%), followed by musculoskeletal (30%) and gastrointestinal (23%).
- Etiological factors were identified in only 3 cases; traditional birth attendants and Anganwadi workers identified 95% of visible malformations.
Conclusions:
- Congenital malformations pose a considerable burden in the studied rural population.
- The study highlights the need for enhanced prenatal care and genetic counseling to address identified anomalies.
- Community health worker involvement is vital for early detection of externally visible malformations.
Abstract:
Children between 0-6 years of age from six villages of Ambala District were screened for congenital malformations. Of 1371 children, malformations were observed in 30 (prevalence 22/1000). Twenty children had major malformations and six had multiple anomalies. Cardiovascular malformations were the commonest (37%) followed by musculoskeletal (30%), gastrointestinal (23%), central nervous system (13%) and genitourinary anomalies (6.6%). An etiological factor (maternal rubella infection or drug exposure during early pregnancy) could be ascertained in only 3 cases. Traditional birth attendents (TBA) and Anganwadi workers (AWW) were helpful in identifying 95% of the cases with externally visible malformations in rural areas. In majority of cases no remedial measures were taken by the parents.