Population prevalence of congenital disabilities among children aged 0-2 years resident in urban slums of Pune, India

Non-fatal birth defects and developmental disabilities are the most important causes of congenital disabilities in young children. This study was performed to determine the prevalence of congenital disabilities among children aged 0-2 years resident in urban slums of Pune. 

In 2016, using a random sampling method, 840 children from 28 registered slums located in each of the 14 wards of Pune city, India, were included in the study.  Data on congenital disabilities and the clinical diagnosis responsible for the disability were collected. Data were also collected on selected risk factors for these conditions and current treatment through a structured questionnaire.   Descriptive analysis was used to describe relationships among variables. Pearson’s chi-square test was used to determine associations, and the level of significance was established at P<0.05.  Associations between outcomes of interest and risk factors were expressed as Odds Ratios (OR) at 95% Confidence Interval (CI).

In this age group, the prevalence of congenital disability was 1.67% (95% CI 0.91-2.78) (14/840). The prevalence of clinically diagnosed birth defects was 1.19% (95% CI 0.57-2.18) (10/840). The prevalence of developmental disabilities was 0.48% (95% CI 0.13-1.21) (4/840). Children with birth defects were more likely to be premature (P=0.045, OR=4.34, 95% CI=1.03-18.28) and low birth weight (P=0.003, OR=10.41, 95% CI=2.21-48.38). Only seven out of 14 children with birth defects and developmental disabilities were taken for treatment after the initial diagnosis.

Birth defects and developmental disabilities are prevalent conditions. Community awareness, provision of appropriate medical and habilitation care, as well as screening and early intervention for these conditions are essential to prevent morbidities and ameliorate disabilities.