Abstract:
Background: Neural tube abnormalities (NTDs) are estimated to affect 300,000 newborns
annually worldwide. NTDs are underreported in Ethiopia, despite the fact that they have a
significant negative impact on the nation's economy, psychological well-being, and death rates.
Furthermore, the causes of NTDs were not addressed. There is little information available,
particularly in the research area, about the determinants of neural tube defects in Ethiopia. The
aim of this study is to determine the factors that influence neural tube abnormalities.
Objective: To identify determinants of neural tube defect among newborns delivered in Oromo
special zone public hospitals, Amhara regional state, Ethiopia, 2023.
Method: Hospital based unmatched case control study was conducted from April 05/2023 to
May 30/2023 on 68 cases of NTDs and 136 controls that was selected using simple random
sampling technique. Data was collected using pretested semi structured questionnaire and
analyzed. Data were entered and cleaned using Epi data version 4.6.0 and analyzed using SPSS
version 25. Binary logistic regression was employed to explore the association between each
independent variable with outcome variable. Finally, AORs at 95% CI and P-value < 0.05 were
used to declare statistical significance.
Result: In this study, 204 newborns (68 cases and 136 controls) participated with a response
rate of 100%. In the logistic regression model, After controlling for possible confounding factors
being Premiparous (AOR: 2.369: 95% CI: 1.031, 5.444), mothers who did not have ANC follow up (AOR: 7.856; 95% CI: 1.894, 32.580), having consanguineous marriage (AOR: 0.185; 95%
CI: 0.039, 0.869), having a previous history of NTDs (AOR = 3.87: 95% CI 1.63, 5.82) and
mothers who did not take folic acid before and during the first trimester of pregnancy (AOR:
0.115; 95% CI: .044-.298) were significantly associated factors with NTDs.
Conclusion and Recommendation: In this study Premiparous, consanguineous marriage and
pervious history of NTDs were associated with increased risk of NTDs, while ANC follow-up
and folic acid supplementation were identified to be protective for NTDs. since health facilities
needs to consider folic acid supplementation for reproductive age groups women and encourage
reproductive age women to have medical consultation prior to pregnancy.
Key words: Neural tube defect, newborn, associated factors, Oromo special Zone, Ethiopia.
