Trends in congenital anomalies and associated factors among newborns in Eastern Ethiopia: an 8-year open cohort analysis of the Kersa Health and Demographic Surveillance System
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the trends and factors associated with congenital anomalies (CAs) among newborns in Eastern Ethiopia from 2015 to 2022. DESIGN: Open cohort study. SETTING: The Kersa Health and Demographic Surveillance System (KHDSS), which is located in the Kersa district of the Oromia region in Eastern Ethiopia, covering 24 kebeles. POPULATION: Newborns registered at birth in the database of the KHDSS site in Eastern Ethiopia. METHODS: The KHDSS tracks demographic and health changes in the community. Newborn data were extracted using a checklist. Trends in CAs over time (in years) were analysed and the associated factors were identified through logistic regression analysis. OUTCOME MEASURE: Newborn CAs, which are structural or functional abnormalities present at birth, were assessed through thorough physical examinations and detailed interviews conducted by trained data collectors using a standardised questionnaire. RESULTS: of 82.76 (p=0.001). Factors associated with CA included maternal age over 35 years (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.68, 95% CI 1.07, 2.62), place of birth (AOR=2.04, 95% CI 1.04, 4.02) and normal birth weight (AOR=0.14, 95% CI 0.04, 0.47). CONCLUSION: The data from the KHDSS revealed a rising trend in CAs. CA was associated with factors such as the mother's age, place of birth and the baby's birth weight. It is crucial for healthcare providers and stakeholders to consider these factors in efforts to reduce the prevalence of CAs.
Source: BMJ Open
Institutions: Haramaya University, Asossa University
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,839
Funder: Haramaya University
OpenAlex ID: W4407100624