Study of congenital heart defects among neonates in Jos, Nigeria: prevalence and spectrum.

Background: There are few reports of the prevalence of CHD in the neonatal period in sub-Saharan Africa. The only available study in Nigeria was carried out before the widespread availability of echocardiography in the country. We sought to determine the prevalence and spectrum of congenital heart defects (CHD) among neonates in Jos, Nigeria.

Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled neonates less than one week of age from the two largest hospitals and their immunisation centres. Relevant information was obtained and an echocardiogram was performed on each neonate.

Results: There were 3 857 neonates recruited over a two-year period; male-to-female ratio was 1.1:1. A total of 111 babies had CHD, with a prevalence of 28.8 per 1 000. Sixty-four neonates had mild CHD, with a prevalence of 16.6 per 1 000, while moderate and severe CHD were found in 27 (7.0 per 1 000) and 20 (5.2 per 1 000), respectively.

Conclusions: CHD is prevalent in Nigerian neonates and there is therefore a need for advocacy to improve access to its diagnosis at birth for appropriate management.