Spatial analysis of congenital malformations of the nervous system

Abstract Background The congenital malformation of the nervous system occurs during embryonic development. The territory can be a relevant factor and that knowledge is important in order to plan actions or interventions in public health. Objective Detecting spatial clusters of the congenital malformations of nervous system and characterizing them according to the data of the National Information System on Live Births. Method Ecological study using data from the National Information System on Live Births in the State of Paraíba in the period from 2014 to 2016. Spatial Incidence Ratio, Scan statistics and Friedman’s test were used for data analysis. Results In 2014 and 2016, spatial clusters dispersed across the State were observed. However, in 2015, there was a higher concentration of spatial clusters in the northwest of the state. Conclusion The spatial clusters detection can support managers to identify priority areas from children healthcare with congenital malformations of the nervous system.