Incidence of Birth Defects from Selected Hospitals in Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: The occurrence of birth defects has been reported in various parts of the Nigeria. Certain regions within Nigeria however still lack details on the accurate number of birth defect cases occurring within their location.

Aim: The current study was designed to determine the incidence of birth defect cases in newborn children in Abuja within a specific period.

Methods: This study was retrospective study. Data was obtained from patient’s folders in each of the respective hospitals. Data was presented in table and Chi-square was used to calculate the level of significance.

Results: The frequency of birth defects was seen to higher in males when compare to the females within the specified period of study. The most common birth defect recorded was the neural tube defect followed by the Down’s syndrome.

Conclusion: The data recorded in this study consistently showed a higher occurrence of birth defects in more males than females. This information is important for health care providers in various programs conducted to enlighten young women and expectant mothers on birth defects.