ACCORDING to the latest study, babies conceived through reproductive technology assistance or Assited Reproductive Technology (ART) will increase the risk of birth defects.

Researchers analyzed all ART births (15 000) enrolled in 33 clinics in France between 2003 and 2007, found the rate of birth defects at 4.24 percent. Compared with two to three percent of the general population. Thus news agency quoted by Agence France Presse (AFP).

"The numbers are high enough to show the existence of excess of heart disease and disorders of the uro-genital system. Usually found in boys," said Geraldine Viot a clinical geneticist who headed the research in a press release in maternity hospitals Port Royal, Paris .

"We estimate that in France, around 200 000 children have been born via ART. Malformation rate for this is a public health problem. This fact is very important to be known by the doctors and the government," said Viot