Maternal risk factors and neural tube defects in offspring, in two hospitals in Nicaragua, 2016-2020. A case-control study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5377/universitas.v14i1.16471Keywords:
neural tube defects, risk factor, folic acid, pregnancy planning.Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are the second most common congenital malformations affecting the development of the central nervous system, with a high prevalence in the western region of Nicaragua. This study analyzes the association between maternal and environmental risk factors and NTDs in offspring. Method: A case-control study was conducted at the university hospitals of León and Chinandega between January 2016 and December 2020. Cases (76) were defined as live births or stillbirths with NTD. Controls (146) neonates without NTDs with a ratio (2:1) were matched for date of birth and hospital of birth. A multivariate regression model was used to study the association between maternal and environmental characteristics with the risk of developing NTDs. Results: 73 NTD cases and 146 healthy controls were included in this study. Not taking folic acid supplements during the first trimester of pregnancy (ORA= 16.0, 95% CI: 5.9-43.3), rural origin (ORA= 2.7, 95% CI: 1.23-6.21) and low birth weight (ORA= 9.9, 95% CI: 3.12-31.60), were determined as risk factors with statistical significance. Conclusion: The Lack of consumption of folic acid supplements during early stages of pregnancy is a consistent risk factor for neural tube defects in the northwestern region of Nicaragua. Strengthening information, education and communication plans on folic acid consumption for women of reproductive age should be considered to increase the consumption of this micronutrient and reduce NTDs.
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