Assessment of Parental Risk Factors Involved in Orofacial Clefts in Hail, Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background Orofacial clefts are congenital anomalies affecting the development of the oral and facial structures, influenced by genetic and environmental factors. The prevalence of orofacial clefts varies globally, necessitating region-specific studies to understand contributing factors. Orofacial clefts are among the most common congenital defects affecting the head and neck, underscoring the importance of investigating paternal and maternal influences on their development to enhance awareness and understanding of potential contributing factors. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate parental risk factors contributing to the development of orofacial clefts.  Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Oral and Maxillofacial Department of King Khaled Hospital, Hail, Saudi Arabia, involving 40 parents of children born between 2019 and 2023 with orofacial clefts. Data collection included interviewer-administered questionnaires with parents addressing demographic information, pregnancy details, parental medical history, and postoperative outcomes. Statistical analysis utilized descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Fisher's exact test, and linear regression, with significance defined as p<0.05. Results The study had a gender distribution of 19 males (47.5%) and 21 females (52.5%) among orofacial cleft cases (p<0.75), with cleft palate (13 cases, 32.5%) and cleft lip (11 cases, 27.5%) being the most prevalent anomalies (p<0.05). Maternal supplementation rates were high, with 34 mothers (85%, p<0.05) taking folic acid and 36 mothers (90%, p<0.05) taking iron, yet orofacial clefts incidence persisted. Paternal risk factors such as tobacco use were reported by 19 fathers (47.5%, p<0.05), and familial history of orofacial clefts was noted in nine cases (22.5%, p<0.05). Postoperative outcomes indicated varying levels of functional recovery and satisfaction. Conclusion This study explored the complex origins of orofacial clefts, emphasizing genetic and environmental influences. The findings suggest a potential paternal risk factor. The study highlights the need for further investigation into genetic mechanisms and the development of effective prevention strategies.