Neonatal Congenital Heart Defects: Prevalence, Maternal Factors and Survival Outcomes at a Tertiary Hospital in Jeddah

Abstract Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence, patterns, maternal factors and survival outcomes of congenital heart defects (CHDs) in neonates born over 3 years at a tertiary hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This retrospective and hospital record-based study included all neonates born between January 2019 and December 2022 at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. CHD cases were identified through robust electronic medical records (EMRs), and descriptive statistics were used to summarise prevalence, patterns, associated factors and neonatal outcomes. Results: Out of 22,972 live births, 37 neonates had CHD, yielding a prevalence of 1.61 per 1000 live births (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.09–2.13). Combined defects accounted for 83.8% of cases, with patent ductus arteriosus (62.2%) and ventricular septal defect (35.1%) being the most frequent. Lower birth weight (odds ratio [OR]: 3.13, 95% CI: 1.24–7.91) and advanced maternal age (mean 31.3 years, OR: 4.17, 95% CI: 1.09–15.85) were risk factors. Comorbid diabetes was observed in 24.3% of mothers. The majority (83.8%) of neonates were alive at follow-up. Conclusion: The prevalence of CHD was lower than global and regional estimates, with comparable survival outcomes. Public health initiatives targeting modifiable risks such as maternal age and diabetes, alongside enhanced prenatal screening, may help reduce the CHD burden in Saudi Arabia. Multicentre studies are recommended for a broader understanding of CHD epidemiology.