The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #60650

Mary-Elizabeth M. Reeve, PhD, MPH, Global Programs, March of Dimes, 1275 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, NY 10605, (914) 997-4247, mreeve@marchofdimes.com and Eduardo E. Castilla, MD, Eclamc/Genetica/Fiocruz, CP 926, Rio de Janeiro RJ, 20001-970, Brazil.

In developing countries, few data are systematically collected on the incidence of specific birth defects. There is a need for this information to help in development of health policy (e.g., food fortification, newborn screening) and for planning and evaluation of health education and service delivery programs. The Latin American Study of Congenital Malformations (ECLAMC) is a voluntary surveillance study providing hospital-based data for 12 countries in Latin America. This paper will describe the ECLAMC study; its cost-effectiveness, participants' opportunities for professional development, and limitations of the study. The importance of birth defects monitoring for health program and policy development will be discussed, using an example from Ecuador. The authors will examine the applicability of the model to other regions of the world.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to:
• Recognize the value of data on birth defects to inform MCH health policy, assist in measurement of needs and provide information for impact evaluation of health programs.
• Describe a cost-effective model system for collection of birth defects incidence data. 3)Identify ways in which the model can be applied across developing countries.

Keywords: Birth Defects, International MCH

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.