Análise da tendência dos defeitos do fechamento do tubo neural em recém nascidos no estado do Pará antes e durante a pandemia

Abstract

The analysis of the profile of live births with neural tube closure defects is a crucial field of medical research, as these anomalies pose a significant challenge to public health worldwide, involving both clinical and epidemiological, genetic, and social aspects. Objective: to analyze the anomalies of neural tube defects in the specific context of the state of Pará from 2018 to 2021. Methodology: observational, descriptive, exploratory temporal ecological study conducted through queries to the Live Birth Information System (SINASC) database, made available to the public by the Department of Health Informatics of the Unified Health System (Datasus), carried out from August to October 2023. Results: most cases of anencephaly occur in preterm babies, highlighting the importance of monitoring prematurity when assessing certain anomalies. The impact of the pandemic on the prevention of neural congenital malformations is also noteworthy. Before this period, there was a downward trend in cases, but in 2020 there was an increase in the number of cases, possibly associated with the disruption of prenatal care due to lockdown restrictions. The increase in diagnoses in 2020, compared to 2021, suggests that difficulties in conducting consultations and prenatal monitoring resulted in a higher number of live births with neural tube defects. The association between the pandemic and the increase in malformations, especially unspecified congenital hydrocephalus, highlights the need for strategies to mitigate impacts on prevention practices during global health crises. The relationship between gestational age and the prevalence of anencephaly emphasizes the importance of considering gestational time when investigating specific malformations, highlighting a significant association with prematurity. Conclusion: adequate prenatal care is necessary, as well as public policies that promote appropriate monitoring from the early stages of gestation.