Frequency of congenital birth defects in a private medical college hospital in Bangladesh - Cross sectional study

Background: Congenital birth defects remain a significant cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Reliable hospital-based data are essential for understanding local patterns and planning preventive and therapeutic strategies. Objective: To determine the frequency, pattern, and organ system–wise distribution of congenital birth defects among admitted neonates in a tertiary care hospital. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary-level hospital in Bangladesh over the study period. All neonates diagnosed with congenital anomalies during admission were included. Maternal characteristics, neonatal variables, and types of congenital anomalies were recorded and analyzed descriptively. Results: A total of 65 cases of congenital birth defects were identified, accounting for 1.74% of total admissions. Most affected mothers were aged 20–29 years (47.7%). Cardiovascular anomalies were the most frequent (43.1%), followed by musculoskeletal (36.9%), genitourinary (27.7%), and central nervous system defects (23.1%). Multiple organ system involvement was observed in several cases. Conclusion: Congenital birth defects constituted a notable burden, with cardiovascular and musculoskeletal anomalies predominating. Early detection and improved antenatal surveillance are crucial to reduce adverse outcomes.