Worldwide, atrial septal defects occur in 1 in 1500 live births. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated that, every year, 1,966 babies in the United States are born with an atrial septal defect. As with most congenital heart diseases, it is unclear exactly why certain babies are born with atrial septal defects. More commonly found in women than men, the female-to-male ratio of 2:1. More common in families with a history of genetic problems and other congenital heart diseases.
Certain types of atrial septal defects are associated to down syndrome. Genetic counseling may be performed to estimate the likelihood that any future children may be born with an atrial septal defect.
Expectant mothers exposed to rubella may have an increased risk in having a baby with a heart defect. Drug and alcohol use during pregnancy can harm fetal development. Alcohol use during pregnancy nearly doubles the likelihood of an atrial septal defect.
Who is at highest risk for Atrial septal defect ?
Worldwide, atrial septal defects occur in 1 in 1500 live births. {{ORGANIZATION}} ({{ORGANIZATION}}) estimated that, every year, 1,966 babies in the United States are born with an atrial septal defect. As with most congenital heart diseases, it is unclear exactly why certain babies are born with atrial septal defects. More commonly found in women than men, the female-to-male ratio of 2:1. More common in families with a history of genetic problems and other congenital heart diseases.
Certain types of atrial septal defects are associated to down syndrome. Genetic counseling may be performed to estimate the likelihood that any future children may be born with an atrial septal defect.
Expectant mothers exposed to rubella may have an increased risk in having a baby with a heart defect. Drug and alcohol use during pregnancy can harm fetal development. Alcohol use during pregnancy nearly doubles the likelihood of an atrial septal defect.