Nonsyndromic oral clefts and associated risk factors in the state of Bahia, Brazil

Aim: Nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate (NSCL ± P) is the most common craniofacial birth defect. This study aims to determine demographic characteristics and the epidemiologic profile of NSCL ± P in Bahia, Brazil. Subject and methods: 692 patients of three Cleft Lip and Palate Treatment Centers were interviewed. Results: Cleft lip and palate (CLP) was the most frequent type of oral cleft (52.8%), particularly unilateral (34.8%) and affecting the left side (p< 0.001). Family history of cleft was found in 27.6%, especially between cousins (49.7%; p< 0.001). The Salvador metropolitan area represented 45.2% of the samples, followed by Mid-South (17.7%) and Mid-North Bahia (13.9%). In the South of the state, the risk of developing CL and CLP was statistically significant (p= 0.03; p= 0.006, respectively), and in the region of Vale do São Francisco there was a significant risk of developing CLP (p= 0.01), both in relation to CP. Young age and alcohol use in pregnancy were associated to giving birth to children with CLP (p= 0.02, p= 0.03, respectively). The use of folate and other vitamins diminished the risk of developing CL and CLP if compared to CP (p= 0.009). Conclusion: It is hoped that the results of this research may be useful in planning actions of public service that should take care of affected individuals.