Evaluation of Incidence and Main Risk Factors of Major Congenital Anomalies in Hospitals Affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences during 1395

Background and Objectives: Congenital anomalies are also known as birth defects and congenital disorders. Congenital anomalies occur in about 3-7% of the newborn babies worldwide. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of congenital anomalies and their determinants in hospitals affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 1395. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in all infants born in 1395. The data were analyzed with the SPSS software version 20 using Binary logistic regression. Results: Of 5455 births in Isfahan hospitals, 121 neonates were diagnosed with major congenital anomalies. The total incidence of major congenital anomalies was 2.2 per 100 births. The results showed a statistically significant relationship between maternal blood group, consanguinity, sex and height of infant with congenital anomalies in newborns (P <0.05). Moreover, 26.7% of all abnormalities were related to limbs and the lowest percentage was related to genetic abnormalities, digestive system, anus, and spine with an incidence of 0.7% for each. Conclusion: More attention should be paid to premarital genetic counseling in order to identify the consanguinity factor as a risk factor for genetic abnormalities. Moreover, pregnant women should be educated about the timely intake of micronutrients to control abnormalities.