Impact of major congenital anomalies on preterm birth and low birth weight

Major congenital anomalies (MCAs) are significant contributors to perinatal morbidity and mortality, especially in preterm and low birth weight neonates. The association between MCAs, preterm birth, and low birth weight remains poorly defined, necessitating further research to refine management strategies. This study aimed to investigate the impact of MCAs on preterm and low birth weight births in a sample of the Emirati population. The analysis was based on a cohort of singleton live births from the Mutaba’ah study (2017–2023). Regression models assessed the association between MCAs and both preterm birth and low birth weight, adjusting for maternal and neonatal characteristics. Neonates with any MCAs had two-times higher odds of preterm birth (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3–2.9) and low birth weight (AOR: 2.2, 95% CI 1.4–3.3), compared with MCAs-free neonates. Moreover, neonates with multiple MCAs had significantly increased odds of being born preterm (AOR: 5.3, 95% CI 2.6–10.7) or with low birth weight (AOR: 3.5, 95% CI 1.5–8.6). This study provides evidence of a strong association between MCAs and increased risks of preterm birth and low birth weight, highlighting the need for a proactive, multidisciplinary approach to improve health outcomes for this vulnerable population.