Congenital Brain Malformation in the Arab World

Congenital anomalies are increasing among low and middle-income countries. Only a few old data are available in the middle-east and in countries where genetic counseling is not implemented through the program of natal care. Our search was to estimate the proportion of congenital brain malformation in the Arab world and to evaluate the related risk factor in each country. Results indicated that Egypt and Tunisia have the highest percentage of congenital brain anomalies with the male proportion being higher than females. Consanguinity marriage and family history are recognized as the most important risk factors for increasing the malformations proportions together with genetic counseling unavailability and in the absence of the modern equipment techniques for chromosomal alterations follow-up. Education, prenatal, natal, and postnatal follow-up are critical for families with a history of congenital anomalies and specifically in cultures where consanguinity marriage is predominant.