Population Of Childbearing Age Research Articles

Factors associated with home births in Peru 2015–2017: A cross-sectional population-based study

BackgroundHigher rates of maternal complications and deaths have been described in home births. However, few local studies have evaluated factors associated with home births in Peru. The study aims to determine the prevalence and factors associated with home birth in the Peruvian population. MethodsA population-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using pooled data from the 2015–2017 Peruvian Demographic and Health Surveys. A logistic regression model was performed to calculate crude and adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for the association between sociodemographic and mother-related factors and home births. ResultsSeven out of every 100 births were home births. Living in a rural area (aOR = 3.10; 95% CI: 2.52–3.81), having a primary or secondary educational level, belonging to a medium or low wealth tertile, being from the rest of the Coast, Andean or Amazon regions, the second or greater number of birth order and considering the distance to the health center as problematic (aOR: 1.32; 95% CI: 1.17–1.48) were found to be associated with a higher probability of home births. Contrarily, being in the age groups of 25–34 and 35–39 years old, having a multiple pregnancy and giving birth to a medium (aOR: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.78–1.00) or large-sized newborn (aOR = 0.81; 95% CI: 0.72–0.93) were associated with a lower probability of presenting home births. ConclusionsSociodemographic factors are associated with home births in Peru. Further study of these factors is required to develop strategies specific to the needs of the population of childbearing age.

Analysis of Gene Mutation Types of Thalassemia in Yulin Childbearing-age Population of Guangxi China

To investigate the genotype distribution of thalassemia in the population of childbearing age in Yulin area. The polymerase reaction (PCR) combined with agargel eletrophoresis and reserve dot bolt hybridization was used to detected the α- and β-thalassemia gene in 31 769 cases of suspected thalassemia population at childbearing-age. A total of 22 254 cases were identified as thalassemia gene detetion or mutation in 31 769 cases with a detecting rate of 70.05%, and the detecting rate of α-thalassemia, β-thalassemia and α-combining β-thalassemia were 45.86% (14 569/31 769), 19.45% (6 178/31 769) and 4.74% (1 507/31 769) respectively. 28 kinds of α-thalassemia gene mutations were detected, the common mutations were as follows: --SEA/αα (28.18%), -α3.7/αα (6.29%), -α4.2/αα (3.66%), αCSα/αα (1.93%) and αWSα/αα (1.89%)，and including two rare gene mutations: -THAI and HKαα. 16 kinds of β-thalassemia gene mutations were detected, the common mutations were as follows: β41-42/βN (9.41%), β-28/βN (3.05%), β-17/βN (2.86%) and β654/βN (2.18%). 93 kinds of α combining β-thalassemia gene mutations were detected, the common mutations were as follows: --SEA/αα (1.05%) and -α3.7/αα (0.56%) combining β41-42/βN. The detection rate of thalassemia gene is high in Yulin caildbearing-age population, and there is diversity in mutation spectrums of thalassemia. The most common genotypes are --SEA/αα in α-thalassemia and β41-42/βN in β-thalassemia. The results are beneficial for the intervention and genetic consultation of thalassemia.

Analysis of HBsAg screening among rural childbearing age people in Yunnan province during 2013-2017

Objective: To explore the current status of HBV infection before pregnancy among rural childbearing age people in Yunnan province, find out the population at high risk and areas with high incidence and provide evidence for promoting pre-pregnancy aristogenesis and medical interventions for prevention of HBV infection. Methods: The subjects in the study were rural childbearing age people aged 18-49 who received the national free pre pregnancy eugenic health examination in Yunnan province during 2013-2017. Descriptive analysis was conducted for HBsAg positive rate and its difference among various characteristics. The SPSS 22.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 2 180 841 rural childbearing age people were surveyed, the HBsAg positive rate before pregnancy was 3.13%(68 314/2 180 841) in Yunnan. And the HBsAg positive rate was 3.56% (37 694/1 057 376) in men, higher than that in women (2.73%, 30 620/1 123 465). The HBsAg positive rate was highest in age group 41-49 years (3.77%, 3 126/82 931). The HBsAg positive rate was higher in minority ethnic group (3.77%, 27 974/742 518) than in Han ethnicity group (2.81%, 40 024/1 425 870). Moreover, the highest HBsAg positive rate of was 8.20%(851/10 378) in Yao ethnic group. The people with education level of primary education had the highest HBsAg positive rate (3.97%, 17 294/435 219). The HBsAg positive rate was highest in Xishuangbanna Dai autonomous prefecture (6.65%, 3 875/58 232) in Yunnan. Moreover, the HBsAg positive population in severe poor area (3.32%, 19 755/595 665) was higher than those in less poor area (3.17%, 29 750/939 101) or normal areas (2.91%, 18 809/646 075). There was significant difference in HBsAg positive rate among populations in different age groups, ethnic groups, education level groups, areas and economic level groups (P<0.001). Conclusions: The HBsAg positive rate in rural childbearing age people in Yunnan was related to multi factors, including sex, age, ethnic group, education level, area and economic development level. The HBsAg positive rate was higher in men, older age and lower education level, minority ethnic group (especially in Yao ethnic group), from Xishuangbanna prefecture and the poor living conditions in childbearing age population.

P447 No severe neonatal and maternal complications in inflammatory bowel diseases patients treated with ustekinumab or vedolizumab during pregnancy

Abstract Background Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) have a high incidence in the female population of childbearing age. Ustekinumab (UST) and vedolizumab (VDZ) are used in IBD after failure of immunosuppressants and//or anti-TNF therapy. Data on the use and safety of these novel biologics in pregnancy are rare. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study in the GETAID and identified female IBD patients who received at least one injection of UST or VDZ during pregnancy or within the 2 months before conception. The aims of the study were to assess the maternal and neonatal complications in these patients and to assess the management of VDZ or UST during pregnancy. Results Seventy-three pregnancies in 68 patients were reported in 21 centres. The median time between UST or VDZ introduction and pregnancy was 11.8 months (IQR: 5.2–17.6) and 10 months (IQR: 5.7–19.5), respectively. Twenty-nine pregnancies occurred in 27 patients on UST resulting in 26 (90%) live births, two (7%) spontaneous abortions, and one (3%) elective termination. Maternal complications were reported in two patients (gestational diabetes and threat of preterm birth). Five (19%) neonatal complications were reported (3 preterm deliveries, one low birth weight and one cardiac malformation). Six (21%) patients received UST in the 2 months before conception and stopped UST with a relapse in one patient (17%). UST was maintained during pregnancy in 22 (79%) patients: 13 patients discontinued UST in the first trimester with a relapse in 4 (31%) patients and 9 patients maintained UST during all pregnancy with a relapse in 3 (33%) patients. Forty-four pregnancies occurred under VDZ resulting in 38 (86%) live births, 5 (11%) spontaneous abortions and one (3%) medical interruption. Maternal complications were reported in 5 women (4 pre-eclampsia and one pregnancy cholestasis). Fourteen (37%) neonatal complications were reported: 7 (18%) premature births, 6 (16%) low birth weights and one (3%) congenital corpus callosum hypoplasia. Fifteen (34%) patients received VDZ in the 2 months before conception and discontinued VDZ with a relapse in 8 (53%) patients. VDZ was maintained during pregnancy in 29 (66%) patients: 16 patients discontinued VDZ in the 1st trimester with a relapse in 8 (50%) patients and 13 patients maintained VDZ during all the pregnancy with a relapse in one (8%) patient. Conclusion We reported 73 pregnancies under VDZ or UST. Except one cardiac malformation on UST and one congenital corpus callosum hypoplasia on VDZ, no serious neonatal or maternal complications were observed. However, additional prospective evaluations regarding pregnancy outcomes with new biologics are needed.

Access to reproductive health services among the female floating population of childbearing age: a cross-sectional study in Changsha, China

BackgroundThe floating population serves an important role in economic and social development. However, little is known about the floating population’s reproductive health (RH) services, especially in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to assess the use of reproductive health services in the female floating population in China, which is a country with the largest floating population in the world.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted for more than 3 months. Six hundred twenty females of childbearing age in a floating population were recruited into the study by using random sampling, with these individuals being recruited from six community centres in Changsha, China. The use of reproductive health services was assessed by utilizing a self-designed questionnaire.ResultsA total of 555 participants returned the completed questionnaires (effective response rate of 89.5%), including 405 married women and 150 unmarried women. The utilization of RH services was poor in individuals who could access RH policies (39.3%), RH education (36.4%), RH counselling (27.4%), gratis contraceptives (36.0%), and free RH examinations (38.9%), and married women utilized these services at higher rates than unmarried women (P < 0.01), although 63.3% of the unmarried women had sexual lifestyles. The marital status was significantly associated with receiving RH education, RH counselling, gratis contraceptives, and free RH examinations. Age was significantly associated with the use of RH education and free RH examinations. The average personal monthly income had a significantly beneficial effect on the use of free RH examinations. Obstetrics and gynaecological disease prevention (67.2%) were the greatest needs of the RH services, and the use of the Internet was the best way to obtain these services. Most of the individuals (77.3%) hoped to receive gynaecological health screenings that were provided by obstetrics and gynaecology hospitals.ConclusionsThe female floating population exhibited poor awareness of RH and rarely used RH services, especially in unmarried women. The results suggest that educational interventions for the female floating population, as well as policy and resource developments should meet the demands for RH services, which are urgently needed in China.

Maternal Nutritional and Water Homeostasis as a Presage of Fetal Birth Weight.

Birth weight is a key determinant of perinatal outcomes which affect physical development and metabolic function. In this study, we evaluated the potential role of maternal body composition and nutritional status in programing fetal birth weight. This was a longitudinal study that included 29 pregnant women and their full-term newborns. Maternal dietary energy and fluid intake and body adipose tissue were assessed. In addition, we measured the serum content of copeptin, aldosterone, and angiotensin II in maternal and umbilical cord blood. The measurements were done across the three trimesters of pregnancy, on average, at 11.6weeks, 18.3weeks, and 30.2weeks. Each newborn's birth weight was determined at the percentile line, using the World Health Organization (WHO) standards based on the gestational age, gender, and weight. We found no appreciable relation of fetal birth weight to the maternal dietary and fluid intakes, and the content of angiotensin II, aldosterone, or copeptin. However, birth weight correlated with increases in body adipose tissue in early pregnancy stages. Further, birth weight correlated positively with copeptin and adversely with angiotensin II in cord blood. We conclude that the present findings may be helpful in the assessment of a critical level of body adipose tissue in women of child-bearing age, above which the potential risk of macrosomia appears. The female population of child-bearing age needs a continual update on the nutritional knowledge to prevent modifiable maternal and fetal perinatal complications.

Autoimmune thyroid diseases and pregnancy

Thyroid autoimmunity affects 5–20% of the female population of childbearing age. Even in the absence of overt maternal thyroid dysfunction, thyroid autoimmunity has been reported to be associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and impaired fetal neurodevelopment. Present evidence indicates that thyroid autoimmunity poses a risk for miscarriage and preterm delivery. By contrast, with regard to infertility most studies failed to find significantly different likelihood of pregnancy in euthyroid women with and without thyroid antibodies undergoing assisted reproduction procedures. Finally, uncertainty surrounds the role of thyroid autoantibodies on fetal and neonatal outcomes, since an increased risk for perinatal death, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and respiratory distress syndrome has been inconsistently reported, and only few studies addressed the impact of maternal thyroperoxidase antibodies (TPOAbs) during pregnancy on cognitive functioning of the child, once again providing mixed results. Whether thyroid antibodies have a direct effect on neonatal outcomes, including neurodevelopment in the progeny, or whether the observed associations are related to maternal autoimmune-related thyroid insufficiency needs to be still clarified.

BISPHENOL A EXPOSURE IS LINKED WITH UTERINE FIBROMA IN WESTERN ALGERIAN WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE

Abstract Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor chemical widely used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins found in everyday consumer products including food and beverage containers. This molecule was recently incriminated as a potential initiator for a number of diseases such as uterine fibromas, a frequent gynecological benign tumor that affects women’s fertility and life quality. The present study aims to investigate the association between uterine leiomyoma and BPA plasma levels in a population of Algerian women. Eighty plasma samples were collected from women with confirmed uterine fibroids diagnosis (N=40) and healthy volunteers without uterine leiomyomas (N=40) recruited at the specialized Hospital of Gynecology and Obstetrics of Sidi Bel Abbes in the western region of Algeria. Uterine leiomyoma subjects were then divided into three groups according to tumor growth and severity. BPA plasma levels were detected and measured using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Seventy five percent of uterine leiomyoma patients were exposed to BPA and were principally young nulliparous women aged from 31 to 40 years expressing significantly higher plasma BPA levels than controls (0.89 ± 1.65 vs 0.05 ± 0.12 ng/mL; P=0.0001). Concerning the relationship between tumor growth and BPA levels, even though mean concentration was slightly higher in the severe group than the moderate group, the difference was statistically insignificant (P=0.97). These preliminary results suggest an association between environmental exposure to BPA and the occurrence of uterine fibroids among an Algerian female population of child-bearing age. Nevertheless, further studies on larger populations are required to confirm these findings.

The role of IL‑16 gene polymorphisms in endometriosis.

Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases affecting up to 10% of the female population of childbearing age and a major cause of pain and infertility. It is influenced by multiple genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. Interleukin-16 (IL-16) is a proinflammatory cytokine playing a pivotal role in many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases as well as in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association of two IL-16 gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs4072111 and rs11556218, with the risk of endometriosis in women from Greece as well as to gain insight about the structural consequences of these two exonic SNPs regarding development of the disease. A total of 159 women with endometriosis (stages I–IV) hospitalized for endometriosis, diagnosed by laparoscopic intervention and histologically confirmed, and 146 normal controls were recruited and genotyped. Subjects were genotyped using a polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) strategy. A significant association was detected regarding the GG and GT genotype as well as 'G' allele of rs11556218 in patients with endometriosis. The rs4072111 SNP of the IL-16 gene was not found to be associated with an increased susceptibility to endometriosis either for all patients (stages I–IV) or for stage III and IV of the disease only. Our results demonstrated that rs11556218 is associated with endometriosis in Greek women, probably by resulting in the aberrant expression of IL-16, as suggested by the bioinformatics analysis conducted on the SNP-derived protein sequences, which indicated a possible association between mutation and functional modification of Pro-IL-16.

Does motherhood explain lower wages for women in Macedonia?

The objective of the paper is to estimate the motherhood wage gap and its contribution to the gender wage gap in Macedonia, after considering workers’ characteristics and selectivity bias into the labour market for the childbearing-age population. In particular, it aims to disentangle the extent to which the natural role of women to have and raise children affects the gender wage gap. Due to the large female inactivity in Macedonia, we employ a repeated imputation technique, which imputes the wages of those who are unemployed or inactive. Imputed samples are used to decompose the gaps by weighing and by using a re-centred influence function. The Survey of Income and Living Conditions (2010) is used in the analysis. The results suggest that the motherhood wage gap in Macedonia is fully explained by characteristics and, hence, it does not contribute to the potential reducing of the gender wage gap. The selection is also irrelevant, i.e., its consideration does not alter these conclusions.

Prescribing for schizophrenia and psychosis in pregnancy

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness which often requires life-long treatment with antipsychotic medication. Women with schizophrenia are more likely to have an unplanned pregnancy than the rest of the female population of child-bearing age. There is little evidence to show the effects of antipsychotic use in pregnancy on the woman and fetus; however, there is guidance available written by experts in the field.

Effect of obesity on human reproduction

Obesity influences human reproduction in several ways. Obesity is associated with sub-fertility and this effect is noticeable already at BMI 25 kg/m2. As many as 6 - 9% of the female population of child-bearing age suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome, i.e. anovulatory infertility, among whom more than half are obese. Bariatric surgery has become increasingly common in women of childbearing ages, and poses specific problem when women later become pregnant. In addition, the obesity epidemic has also reached the pregnant population of developed countries. The challenge for clinicians within the obstetric field is three-fold; first, obesity is associated with a number of obstetric risks that may have fatal or long-term consequences for both mother and offspring such as preeclampsia, preterm birth, intrauterine death, and congenital malformations. Secondly, while the obvious cure for obesity is weight loss, this is not an appropriate strategy during pregnancy when fetal nutritional demands are at stake. Finally, Caesarean section delivery is not the answer to the problem; the adverse neonatal outcomes are unaffected by mode of delivery, and the anesthetic risks, that are generally elevated in pregnant women, are even more imminent in obese pregnant women.

Infertility as Seen through the Lens of Uncertainty in Illness Theory

Infertility affects approximately 10% to 20% of the childbearing age population worldwide. As infertility affects people from all socioeconomic levels and cuts across all racial, ethnic and religious lines, it is a community health problem of significant import. Infertile women report their infertility to be the worst crisis of their lives, experienced as more significant than divorce or the loss of a parent. Yet, it is a condition that is coped with largely in secret among couples and their health care providers. The inability to have children threatens the very essence of some people's being and self-worth in their family and society. Most research on infertility has been based on theories of stress and coping, but has neglected the concept of uncertainty, which has been shown to significantly affect the infertility experience. The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical context for the study of infertility, and to offer partial explanation for what may be driving advanced reproductive technology choices among infertile couples. Mishel's Theory of Uncertainty in Illness, a functional theory that has been used across health care disciplines is applied to infertility. A conceptual model of the theory is presented, explained and critiqued for its usefulness in understanding the lived experience of infertility. Understanding the role of uncertainty offers important implications for care providers, researchers and their infertile clients.

Anatomical characterisation of the cricothyroid membrane in females of childbearing age using computed tomography

BackgroundIn the event of failure to secure the airway by conventional means, it may be necessary to perform invasive airway access via the cricothyroid membrane. No studies have addressed anatomy of this structure in the obstetric population. We aimed to review the anatomical variation of this structure in a population of childbearing age. MethodsWe searched the radiology database for computed tomography studies of the neck performed in a 13-month period in consecutive patients aged 15–55years. Studies on 18 females and 22 males were reviewed. Male patients were included for comparison. Data were reconstructed using a high spatial frequency algorithm to optimise spatial resolution. Five parameters were measured: distance from the skin to the membrane, maximum midline height of the membrane in the vertical plane, maximum transverse diameter of the membrane, neck diameter and cartilaginous calcification. ResultsThe distance (mean range) from skin to the membrane was similar in females and males (16.2 [3–33] vs. 13.9 [3–37] mm, P=0.42). The vertical height (9.9 [7–17] vs. 11.4 [8–15] mm, P=0.04) and maximum width of the membrane (14.5 [10–17] mm vs. 12.5 [10–15] mm, P<0.01) were greater in males. Cartilaginous calcification was low and did not differ between genders. ConclusionsThe cricothyroid membrane is not necessarily a superficial structure and consequently may be difficult to palpate. The smallest dimensions of the membrane indicate that smaller than recommended cricothyroidotomy devices may be required in some patients as the external diameter of commercial trocar devices and tracheal tubes may exceed 7mm.

The carrier rate and mutation spectrum of genes associated with hearing loss in South China hearing female population of childbearing age

BackgroundGiven that hearing loss occurs in 1 to 3 of 1,000 live births and approximately 90 to 95 percent of them are born into hearing families, it is of importance and necessity to get better understanding about the carrier rate and mutation spectrum of genes associated with hearing impairment in the general population.Methods7,263 unrelated women of childbearing age with normal hearing and without family history of hearing loss were tested with allele-specific PCR-based universal array. Further genetic testing were provided to the spouses of the screened carriers. For those couples at risk, multiple choices were provided, including prenatal diagnosis.ResultsAmong the 7,263 normal hearing participants, 303 subjects carried pathogenic mutations included in the screening chip, which made the carrier rate 4.17%. Of the 303 screened carriers, 282 harbored heterozygous mutated genes associated with autosomal recessive hearing loss, and 95 spouses took further genetic tests. 8 out of the 9 couples harbored deafness-causing mutations in the same gene received prenatal diagnosis.ConclusionsGiven that nearly 90 to 95 percent of deaf and hard-of-hearing babies are born into hearing families, better understanding about the carrier rate and mutation spectrum of genes associated with hearing impairment in the female population of childbearing age may be of importance in carrier screening and genetic counseling.

Diagnosis and treatment of deep-vein thrombosis and approach to venous thromboembolism in obstetrics and gynecology

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common condition in which the approach to its diagnosis has evolved over the years. Currently, an algorithm strategy combining pre-test probability, D-Dimer testing and compression ultrasound imaging allows for safe and convenient investigation of suspected lower-extremity thrombosis. Patients with low pre-test probability and a negative D-Dimer test result can have proximal DVT excluded without the need for diagnostic imaging. The mainstay of treatment of DVT is anticoagulation therapy, whereas interventions such as thrombolysis and placement of inferior vena cava filters are reserved for special situations. The use of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMW) allows for outpatient management of most patients with DVT. The duration of anticoagulation therapy depends on whether the primary event was idiopathic or secondary to a transient risk factor. More research is required to optimally define the factors that predict an increased risk of recurrent DVT to determine which patients can benefit from extended anticoagulant therapy. DVT is also a serious problem in the antenatal and postpartum period of pregnancy. Thromboembolic complications are the leading cause of both maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The incidence of venous thromboembolism during normal pregnancy is six-fold higher than in the general female population of childbearing age. The treatment of DVT during pregnancy deserves special mention, since oral anticoagulation therapy is generally avoided during pregnancy because of the teratogenic effects in the first trimester and the risk of fetal intracranial bleeding in the third trimester. LMW heparin is the treatment of choice for DVT during pregnancy. If acute DVT occurs near term, interrupting anticoagulation therapy may be hazardous because of the risk of pulmonary embolism. In this situation, placement of a retrievable inferior vena cava filter must be considered. However, there is no consensus as to what the appropriate dose should be and whether anti-Xa levels need to be monitored.

Fatores associados ao tipo de parto em mulheres brasileiras: PNDS 2006

The scope of this paper was to analyze the prevalence of the types of delivery and associated factors in Brazilian women of childbearing age studied in the last National Demographics and Health Survey (NDHS). The study is a national domicile-based cross-sectional analysis, seeking to establish the characteristics of the female population of child-bearing age and of children under 5 years of age. The prevalence of the type of delivery was described according to the following exposition variables: Brazilian macro-regions, location of residence, age, skin color, nutritional status, education, prenatal health unit and place of delivery. The statistical significance (p<0,05) was evaluated using the chi-square test. The population studied consisted of 6.125 women. It was revealed that 42.9% of the women had a caesarean section. Significantly, the prevalence of caesarean section was smaller, irrespective of macro-regions, location of residence, age, skin color, nutritional status, prenatal health unit and place of delivery. The need for further investigation into the factors behind the increase in caesarean sections in Brazil is required in order to reverse this situation, since caesarean section can lead to a series of health complications for both mother and child.

Haemostasis in normal pregnancy: a balancing act?

Pregnancy is a risk factor for venous thrombosis and the incidence of venous thromboembolism during normal pregnancy is 6-fold higher during pregnancy than in the general female population of child-bearing age. This incidence is, however, remarkably low given the increases in markers of haemostatic activation observed during normal pregnancy. During normal healthy pregnancy there are substantial changes in the haemostatic system, many of which are procoagulant and supposed to be in preparation for the haemostatic challenge of delivery. Normal haemostasis requires a balance between coagulation and fibrinolysis to maintain the integrity of the vasculature, and complex physiological changes are evident during pregnancy which appear to ensure a constant coagulation/fibrinolysis balance. This balance is maintained, at least partly, by an increase in fibrinolytic activity, but decreases in other factors such as factor XI and monocyte tissue factor expression may also serve to counterbalance procoagulant changes.

Costi della prevenzione della rosolia in gravidanza

Objectives: 1) To identify the proportion of pregnant women susceptible to rubella in a representative sample of the female population of childbearing age resident in Turin (1995–1999); 2) To estimate the probability of adverse events in relation to different vaccination strategies; 3) To evaluate the economic aspects of antirubella vaccination.

Short Report: A study of consanguinity in the Sultanate of Oman

Omani society has a long tradition of consanguinity, which goes back to preIslamic times. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of consanguineous marriage and the mean coefficient of inbreeding in Oman. Consanguinity rates among 60 635 couples (20.8% of the national population of childbearing age) were determined on the basis of a questionnaire in major delivery units. In this large survey, which included all sections of the community, 24.1% of marriages were reported between first cousins and 11.8% of marriages were between second cousins. In addition, a further 20.4% of marriages were contracted within specific tribal groupings. Because of the strictly endogamous nature of the tribal groups in Oman, all marriages would be expected to be consanguineous to some degree, albeit at a level beyond that of second cousins (F