Neural tube defects in the north of Jordan: is there a seasonal variation?

Neural tube defects are serious birth defects of the brain and the spinal cord due to interference with neural tube closure about the 28th day after fertilization. Seasonal variation in the development of neural tube defects has been reported. The objective of this study was to demonstrate any association between the season of conception and the development of neural tube defects in the north of Jordan. For a 7-year period between January 2000 and December 2006, data of 78 neonates born with neural tube defect were analyzed regarding dates of conception in relation to the development of neural tube defects. More affected babies were conceived in the late summer and early autumn. The study demonstrated that seasonality affected the incidence of neural tube defects in the north of Jordan.