In furtherance of our mission to collaborate with others in research and prevention, the Birth Defects Epidemiology and Surveillance Branch (BDESB) may provide Texas Birth Defects Registry (TBDR) data upon request. 

• Tips for Using TBDR Data 
• TBDR Data Dictionary 
   

Requesting Aggregate Statistical Data 

If publicly available statistical data do not meet your needs, you can request BDESB prepare customized aggregate statistical data for you. Most aggregate data requests do not require any additional approval beyond BDESB. However, in certain situations, the number of cases in stratified aggregate data is so few that identification of individuals may be possible. BDESB reserves the right to suppress data or require DSHS Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval before releasing aggregate data. Please see the request form below. 

• TBDR Aggregate Data Request Form 
   

Requesting Record-Level Data for Research 

Providing birth defects data for qualified researchers is a key function of BDESB. Record-level TBDR data for research purposes may be provided under strict guidelines. 

Safeguarding protected health information and maintaining patient confidentiality is required by state law and rules (Texas Health and Safety Code, §87.002, §87.061(c)–§87.063, and §192.002(b); Texas Administrative Code, §37.304 and §37.306). Individuals with indication of adoption or relinquishment are excluded from TBDR datasets that contain identifying information. DSHS IRB approval is required before the release of any record-level TBDR data.  

• Guide to the IRB at DSHS 

BDESB requires completion of our record-level data request form before submission of an IRB application in the DSHS IRB OneAegis System. 

• TBDR Record-Level Data Request Form 
• TBDR Confidentiality and Data Security Agreement