Intractable Rare Dis Res. 2026;15(2):194-199. (DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2026.01011)

Prevalence and maternal-child clinical and socioeconomic factors associated with congenital anomalies in a Mexican hospital-based setting

Salinas-Torres VM, Salinas-Torres RA


SUMMARY

There is controversial evidence that some selected congenital anomalies (CA) are associated with sex, maternal age, urban-rural residence, or socioeconomic status among the Hispanic population. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and maternal-child clinical and socioeconomic factors across a wide range of CA in a hospitalbased setting from northwest Mexico. From January to December 2023, a cross-sectional study for CA and live births at Durango General Hospital was performed. Hospital-based prevalence was calculated for all CA subtypes and grouped anatomical system defects. Associations with CA and subgroup analysis were conducted to assess newborn sex, maternal age, residence, and socioeconomic factors on CA prevalence, using Pearson's chi-squared test and Fisher's exact test. Probability of CA was estimated based on logistic regression analysis along with odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence interval. All tests were two-sided with p values < 0.05 considered statistically significant. A total of 6,784 newborns and 306 CA were assessed (hospital-based prevalence 4.5%). Males, maternal age < 20 and ≥ 35 years, urban residence, and lowest socioeconomic status were associated with CA (all OR > 1.0 and p < 0.05). Subgroup analysis indicated associations between males and cardiovascular and genitourinary defects; maternal age < 20 years and craniofacial and abdominal defects; maternal age ≥ 35 years and digestive and chromosomal abnormalities; mother's urban residence and craniofacial, cardiovascular, genitourinary, and abdominal defects; socioeconomic levels D-E and craniofacial and cardiovascular defects (all OR > 1.0 and p < 0.05). These findings reflect noticeable components associated with several CA and might be relevant for prevention and maternal-child health.


KEYWORDS: congenital abnormalities, maternal age, Mexico, socioeconomic status, prevalence

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