The Distribution of Gastroschisis in Manitoba
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Date
2015-04
Authors
Brezinski, Leah
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Abstract
Introduction: There is a reported increase in prevalence of gastroschisis worldwide. In
addition, there are a significant number of hot spots identified in the current literature.
The etiology for this increase is largely unknown at this time. It is postulated that one of
these notable hot spots is in Northern Manitoba where the prevalence of gastroschisis is
higher when compared to the rest of the province and country.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study and identified cases of gastroschisis
through provincial databases and medical records. They were referenced with postal
codes and birth rates according to region.
Results: The results demonstrate a 2 to 3 fold increase in prevalence of gastroschisis in
the Northern regions of Manitoba when compared to rates in Southern Manitoba.
Conclusion: We successfully identified hot spots in Manitoba that have an increased
prevalence of gastroschisis. A variety of risk factors have been identified as etiologies for
gastrocschisis. Future research efforts will include further investigations in the population
of Northern Manitoba and analysis of specific maternal and geographic considerations
that could explain the increase in prevalence.
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Keywords
gastroschisis, Manitoba