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Background:
This study was designed to determine whether the occurrence of clubfoot follows a seasonal pattern in neonates from eastern and south-eastern China and to speculate the potential etiology of clubfoot.
Methods:
We reviewed 239 neonates with clubfeet during a period of 4 years as well as the monthly neonatal population of the Sixth National Population Census. Seasonal variations in terms of month of birth and severity were analyzed.
Results:
The incidence of clubfoot in neonates from eastern and south-eastern China showed seasonal variations, and the incidence was higher in autumn with a reference to the average birth rate in this corresponding area. No significant difference was found in severity of clubfoot.
Conclusion:
This seasonal pattern is of significant value to further understanding the etiology and pathogenesis of clubfoot in the corresponding area of China.
Key words: clubfoot; etiology; seasonality
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