[Ecologic study in Mexico (2003-2009) on cleft lip and/or palate and associated sociodemographic, socioeconomic and pollution factors].

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the rates of cleft lip and/or cleft palate (CLP) in Mexico between 2003 and 2009 and assess their association with variables at ecological level, sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and pollution.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An ecological study was conducted with data from the 32 states of Mexico for incidence of CLP, obtained from the Ministry of Health. We included sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and pollution information, obtained from governmental agencies. CLP incidence rates were used as dependent variable; independent variables were socioeconomic, demographic and pollution indicators. Statistical analysis was performed using Spearman correlation and chi(2) tests.

RESULTS

During the study period 10573 new cases presented (mean 1510.43 per year). The States with the highest rate (per 1000 births) were: in 2003 the Federal District (Mexico City) (1.76), in 2004 Jalisco (2.62), in 2005 Oaxaca (1.66), in 2006 the State of Mexico (1.29), in 2007, 2008 and 2009 Jalisco (2.17, 2.92, and 1.99). For all the years men were more likely affected than women (P<.05). Variables found positively correlated to LPH rates were total population, solid waste, life expectancy, urban solid waste. The variables negatively correlated were population percentages of high alcohol users, and of alcohol abuse or addiction.

CONCLUSIONS

The State of Jalisco was one of the most affected locations over the years. Ecologic positive correlations existed between cleft lip and/or palate and sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and pollution factors. Incidence rate was negatively correlated with alcohol use and abuse. More detailed epidemiological studies are needed to fully characterize risk factors in Mexican populations.