Congenital Anomalies Research Paper

Introduction to congenital anomalies
Congenital- relating to a condition that is present at birth, as a result of either heredity or environmental influences:
Anomalies- something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected.
Congenital anomalies are also known as birth defects, congenital disorders or congenital malformations. Congenital anomalies can be defined as structural or functional anomalies (e.g. metabolic disorders) that occur during intrauterine life and can be identified prenatally, at birth or later (within first month of life)
Congenital anomalies are major causes of childhood death, chronic illnesses and disabilities in many countries
A congenital physical anomaly is an abnormality of the structure of a body part.

In most cases, however, the cause is

Habits
Alcohol consumption and certain drugs during pregnancy significantly increase the risk that a baby will be born with abnormalities (e.g. fetal alcohol spectrum disorders). even some medication if taken during pregnancy, also can cause permanent damage to the fetus,
Maternal nutritional status
Iodine deficiency, folate insufficiency, obesity and diabetes mellitus are linked to some congenital anomalies. For example, folate insufficiency increases the risk of having a baby with a neural tube defect. Also, excessive vitamin A intake may affect the normal development of an embryo or fetus.

Deomography
Maternal exposure to certain pesticides and other chemicals and radiation during pregnancy, may increase the risk of having a fetus or neonate affected by congenital anomalies. Working or living near, or in, waste sites, smelters or mines may also be a risk factor, especially if the mother is exposed to other environmental risk factors or nutritional