Congenital diaphragmatic hernia epidemiology and demographics

Approximately 4 in every 10,000 live births are affected with congenital diaphragmatic hernia, with most cases being on the left side and amongst male newborns. Due to the development of severe respiratory failure, the mortality rate remains high regardless of the treatment related advancements. In the last two decades, antenatal diagnosis has increased resulting in prompt and more effective treatment.

Of every 10,000 live births, 3-4 are affected with congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Cases are slightly more prominent in males and on the left side.^[1] Although there have been many advances in the treatment of congenital diaphragmatic hernia, the mortality and morbidity rate amongst affected children is still relatively high due to the development of severe respiratory failure.^[2] The most commonly affected demographic is reported to be Caucasians, followed by Asians and African Americans. Studies show that affected neonates had an average gestational age of 35.9 weeks and a low birth weight.^[3] In the last two decades, antenatal diagnosis has increased resulting in prompt and more effective treatment.^[4]