Birth prevalence and associated factors of congenital anomalies among neonates born at a public hospital in Awi Zone, Northwestern Ethiopia: institutional based cross-sectional study.

backgroundCongenital Anomalies, also known as birth defects, are structural, functional, or metabolic abnormalities present at birth or later in life that can result in physical or developmental impairments. In our study area, a notable proportion of newborns are affected by these conditions, posing significant challenges for healthcare providers and families in terms of diagnosis, management, and long-term care. Identifying the risk factors associated with congenital anomalies is crucial for developing targeted health interventions and improving neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to assess the birth prevalence and associated factors of congenital anomalies among neonates delivered at a public hospital in the Awi Zone, Southwestern Ethiopia, in 2023.

methodsInstitutional based cross-sectional study design was performed on 540 neonates. The study setting includes three primary hospitals (Gimjja Bete, Dangla, & Chagni) and Injibara general hospital from May 2022 to July 2023. The study subjects were mothers with their neonates delivered in the aforesaid facilities and those delivered at home and received care within the first 24 h following birth in the above health care settings.

resultsThe study found that 8.3% of neonates (45 out of 540) had congenital anomalies. Several factors were significantly associated with these birth defects: mothers who did not take folic acid supplementation before and during early pregnancy had 8 times higher odds of having a baby with congenital anomalies (AOR: 8.04; 95% CI: 2.43-26.59). Unwanted and unintended pregnancies were associated with 3.27 times greater risk (95% CI: 1.25-8.56), while women with a history of neonatal death after 28 weeks gestation in previous pregnancies faced 2.44 times higher odds (95% CI: 1.10-5.42). Additionally, mothers who did not receive dietary counseling during pregnancy showed 2.09 times increased likelihood of having babies with congenital anomalies (95% CI: 1.08-4.06).

conclusionsThis study found an 8.3% prevalence of congenital anomalies among neonates in Awi Zone, with central nervous system defects being most common. To mitigate this public health issue, we recommend: enhanced preconception and antenatal care with mandatory folic acid supplementation and nutritional guidance, comprehensive psychosocial and economic support programs for expectant mothers, and expanded access to family planning services to prevent unintended pregnancies. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.