Abstract
Author(s): Shamnas M1*, Arya PS1, Viji A Thottumkal1and MG Deepak2
Birth defects include abnormalities in the new born baby’s structure, function or body metabolism which usually lead to physical and mental disabilities and can even be fatal sometimes.The aim of the review is to study the overall frequency of congenital malformations in India, toincrease public awarenessin saving newborns from birth defects;the topics discussed in the current review were prevalence of birth defects in India, mission of birth defects registry of India (BDRI)common type of birth defects. The literature was extensively reviewed concerning the causes of birth defects. Evidences indicate that India has the highest number of children with birth defects.Cleft lip, cleft palate, Down syndrome, autism, muscular dystrophy, neural tube defects,congenital heart disordersare the mostprevalent congenital anomalies present in India. The most common aetiological factorfor developing birth defects in India are advanced maternal age, low birth weight, consanguineous marriage low socio economic status,Maternal infections such as syphilis and rubella and multiple births are the major risks factor for developing congenital anomalies in India. The pharmacy profession has limited involvement in obstetric pharmacotherapy and patient counselling.We believe that such involvement in pregnancieswith complicated conditions can result in significant improvement of pregnancy outcomes.