Abstract:
Background: Several congenital malformations affect developing fetuses, among which
Neural tube defect (NTD) is most common potentially preventable cause of perinatal
morbidity and mortality. Worldwide, around 10% of infant mortalities are due to nervous
system defects. It was estimated that approximately 300,000 babies are born each year. It
remains a major problem in developing countries in eastern parts of Ethiopia there is very
limited published data regarding the prevalence and associated factors
Objective: To determine prevalence of neural tube defect and associated factor among
pregnant women delivered or aborted at Hiwot fana comprehensive specialized university
hospital from September 01- October 31, 2021.
Methods: A Hospital-based cross-sectional study was employed and sampling technique was
used to select study participants. Data processing and analysis was done using Epidata 4.6
and using SPSS statistical software version 25. Bivariate analysis was performed to assess the
factors associated neural tube defect. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess
strength of association between each independent variable with outcome variable. The
significance of association between dependent and independent variables was declared using
odds ratio with 95% confidence interval and P-value <0.05.
Results: The magnitude of NTD among mothers delivered or aborted at HFUSH were
45(7.1%, CI (5.2, 9.3). The predictors of neural tube defects were having history of stillbirths
[AOR=2.77(1.00, 7.66)], drink alcohol during preganancy [AOR=10.27(1.98, 53.16)],
consangious marriege [AOR=5.97(2.07, 17.02)], exposed to radiation during pregnancy
[AOR=6.84(1.42, 32.9)].
Conclusion:The magnitude of NTD among mothers delivered or aborted at HFUSH were
high. Predictors of NTD were being rural residence, parity of between two and five, having
history of still birth, having history of early neonatal death, not having history of COC use,
drug use during pregnancy, coffee intake during pregnancy, drink Alcohol during pregnancy,
consanguinity, exposure to radiation during pregnancy, having passive smoker, and exposure
to toxin chemicals during pregnancy. So, the Ministry of health and Harari Regional Health
Bureau should work together on advocacy and designing for initiation of preconception care
services and implement the new ANC visit recommended by World Health Organization by
2016. The Physician or health care provider should be conscious when order x-ray without
sheild and prescribe drug during pregnancy. The pregnant mother should also counseled
about the impact of drinking alcohol and exposure to chemical toxin on the pregnancy.
