DOES PARENTAL EXPOSURE TO POLLUTION LEAD TO CONGENITAL MALFORMATION OF BABY?

Background: Exposing to pollution is major health concern during pregnancy, as there are evidence shows that Environmental pollution can in principle cause congenital anomalies through pre conceptional mutagenic action or post conceptional teratogenic action. Methods: A structured questionnaire was used for collecting information. Study Subjects were all the Pregnant Mother diagnosed to have congenital birth defected fetus through antenatal examinations, delivered baby with diagnoses of congenital malformation, who were admitted or came for reference services. Results: prevalence rate of congenital malformation was 5.3%. 14 (4.9%) mothers and 73 (25.8%) fathers were stated that they are farmers and exposed to some or other form of pollution. Pesticides are considered only risk factor but not the main and only etiology. Conclusion: Knowledge of birth defect and Environmental concerns should be incorporated into both genetic counseling and antenatal care to create awareness on avoiding exposure to potential teratogens before pregnancy.