6. Congenital heart defects
Anencephaly affects many parts of the development of a fetus and in some cases that extends to other systems. Congenital heart defects are often found in those suffering from Anencephaly. A congenital heart defect occurs when the blood vessels surrounding the heart or the heart itself fail to properly develop during pregnancy. Congenital heart defects are also one of the most commonly seen forms of birth defects.
In Anencephaly patients, this defect can cause problems with the heart valves, arteries, and even the heart walls. Although Anencephaly is quickly noticeable, it is not always easy to ascertain if there is a heart defect present. Sometimes congenital heart defects don’t have any symptoms or may not be noticeable until birth or later in life. Often even if a child with Anencephaly is able to survive, they may pass away due to congenital heart defects within a relatively short period of time.