اپيدميولوژي آنانسفالي در شهر كرمانشاه (80-1375)

Epidemiological Study of Anencephaly in Kermanshah (1996-2001)

Introduction: Considering that anencephaly is one of the causes of stillbirth, and stillbirth determination is a health standard index, this study was conducted to determine the epidemiology of anencephaly in Kermanshah, during 1996-2001. Materials & Methods: This descriptive study included all delivery records during 5 years(1996-2001). Variables, such as sex and gestational age of fetus and mothersʹ parity, residence in town, job, previous illness, age and her relationship with her husband were analysed. Results: In this study 81538 delivery records were studied in which 106 anencephal fetuses(1.3/1000) were identified Female-male ratio was 2/1(60 versus 31). The Prevalence in females was 1.5 and in males it was 0.7 /1000. Most cases were registered in 1996(24.5%). 79 of 106 anencephal fetuses were delivered in urban areas of Kermanshah. Conclusion: Anencephaly was more prevalent in female fetuses (F/M=2). Further studies to find any relation between water chlorine and living area are recommended.