Comprehensive study of modern predictors of congenital heart defects in children

Introduction. Congenital heart defects (CHD) are among the leading causes of childhood mortality. Their prevalence reaches 9 cases per 1,000 live births. Despite advances in diagnostic methods and the implementation of early screening, the study of antenatal and perinatal factors remains highly relevant. Aim . To investigate the most common risk factors for the development of CHD in newborns and, based on these findings, to develop a risk assessment scale (RiskCHD Scale) for the early detection of congenital heart defects in full-term infants. Materials and methods . The study examined 55 full-term newborns with CHD. An analysis of anamnesis and general clinical findings in full-term newborns was performed. Based on the obtained data, the RiskCHD Scale was developed, incorporating infectious, genetic, obstetric, and socio-environmental factors. The validity and reliability (Cronbach’s α coefficient) of the RiskCHD Scale were assessed in 67 newborns with CHD and 1,023 healthy children over three years. Results . Analysis of maternal anamnesis revealed a predominance of chronic somatic pathology (34.5%), acute respiratory diseases during pregnancy (67.3%), and a burdened obstetric-gynecological history. Based on these findings, the RiskCHD Scale was developed, consisting of eight sections and 38 items. The scale demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α ≥ 0.8), validity, and practical effectiveness, enabling a reduction in missed cases of congenital heart disease and improving the efficiency of early diagnosis. Conclusion. The formation of CHD in newborns is determined by a complex of antenatal and perinatal factors, among which maternal infectious processes and somatic pathology play a leading role. The RiskCHD Scale is a reliable tool for the early detection of congenital heart defects, accessible for use in the practice of family physicians, neonatologists, and pediatric cardiologists.

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