Pattern of Congenital Malformations at Birth and Their Associated Maternal Characteristics

Congenital anomalies are a global issue and the primary reason of death in both developed and advanced countries. Congenital anomalies occur at varying rates in various populations. The purpose of this research was to determine the prevalence and pattern of congenital anomalies in newborns, as well as the associated maternal and environmental factors in newborns, presented at the Babylon teaching hospital for motherhood and pediatrics in AL-Hilla city, between 2017 and 2021.

This study follows a descriptive design, and was based on population data from the statistic registry covering the AL-Hilla city, Iraq, 2017 to 2021. The registry covers live and still births. Also, maternal and neonatal information regarding sex, birth weight, parental consanguinity, and maternal age, were recorded.

There were 214 congenitally deformed newborns among the 46,777 births in AL-Hilla city. There were 109 males (50.69 percent) and 103 females (47.90 percent). The most common congenital malformations discovered were those relating to the neurological system, followed by those relating to the musculoskeletal system.

Anomalies in the central nervous system were most apparent, however, this research can help to determine the approximate distribution of the prevalence of congenital anomalies in AL-Hilla city in Iraq. Also, by identifying their main types, information can be applied to improve the clinical performance and public policies of Iraq.