Epidemiology of gastroschisis: A population-based study in California from 1995 to 2012

Background

Although the incidence of gastroschisis is increasing, risk factors are not clearly identified.

Methods

Using the Linked Birth Database from the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development from 1995 to 2012, patients with gastroschisis were identified by ICD-9 diagnosis/procedure code or birth certificate designation. Logistic regressions examined demographics, birth factors, and maternal exposures on risk of gastroschisis.

Results

The prevalence of gastroschisis was 2.7 cases per 10,000 live births. Patients with gastroschisis had no difference in fetal exposure to alcohol (p?=?0.609), narcotics (p?=?0.072), hallucinogenics (p?=?0.239), or cocaine (p?=?0.777), but had higher exposure to unspecified/other noxious substances (OR 3.27, p?=?0.040; OR 2.02, p?=?0.002). Gastroschisis was associated with low/very low birthweight (OR 5.08–16.21, p?

Conclusions

This is the largest population-based study summarizing current epidemiology of gastroschisis in California.

Type of study

Retrospective comparative cohort study.

Level of evidence

III.