Birth defects occur in about 3% of all births. Arkansas Reproductive Monitoring System (ARHMS) has been collecting data and monitoring major structural and chromosomal defects in the state since the 1980s. The statistics shown here are based on the most recent available data of five years. The case numbers and prevalence are 5-year averages. The data is current up to 2019. All birth outcomes are included. Prevalence is calculated over 10,000 live births.
Congenital heart defects are the most common defects. They account for more than one-third of all birth defects ARHMS collects and monitors. The second largest group is genitourinary defects, which account for about 22%. Case numbers and prevalence are shown below.
Many defects have gender differences in prevalence. Overall, male infants have a higher prevalence than females. For specific defects, a higher prevalence may be observed in females. Hypospadias is a birth defect only found in males.
The prevalence of birth defects has a racial discrepancy. Overall, infants born to non-Hispanic (NH) White mothers have the highest prevalence. Though certain specific birth defects may show higher prevalence in NH-Blacks, Blacks tend to have a relatively lower prevalence compared to other racial groups.
Differences in prevalence are observed in different maternal age groups. Overall, higher prevalence is associated with older maternal age. For instance, the prevalence of Down syndrome is significantly higher in the age group of 35 years and older.
The geographic distribution of birth defects in Arkansas varies. Counties are divided into five public health regions. The central region has the highest prevalence of most selected common birth defects. The prevalence of common birth defects by Arkansas regions is shown below.
We support scientific endeavors in birth defects and any public health activities that would like to utilize our data and resources. We welcome collaborations and do our best to contribute to inquiries related to the cause. If you are interested in our data, you can make data requests through the link below. Please contact us for detailed instructions.
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