Spatial-time clusters of neural tube defects and maternal alpha fetoprotein levels in Villa Clara province (2011-2015)

Abstract

Introduction: Neural tube defects are associated to high serum alpha fetoprotein values.
Objective: To determine the adjusted prevalence rate of the neural tube defects in Villa Clara province.
Methods: A retrospective and descriptive study was conducted in 43 of the infants born alive or from elective cessation of pregnancy because of this problem. Data on specific type of the neural tube defect and the maternal serum alpha fetoprotein values were taken from the Cuban Register of Congenital Malformations and from the Cuban Prenatal Congenital Malformations of the provincial center of medical genetics in Villa Clara province.
Results: The spatial statistical techniques allowed finding time, spatial or spatial-time clusters. The adjusted prevalence rate was 5.47 per 1000 newborns. The serum alpha fetoprotein levels observed in the study were useful for the diagnosis of the open neural tube defects such as anencephaly.
Conclusions: The spatial and time cluster findings allowed determining those municipalities where intervention is necessary through programs for the detection and control of possible environmental factors related to these congenital defects.