Prevalence and Factors Associated with Neonatal Mortality at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northern Ethiopia. A Cross-Sectional Study

Patterns of postnatal weight gain and its predictors among preterm very low birth weight neonates born in Bahir-Dar city public hospitals, 2022: A cross sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Postnatal weight gain in very low birth weight infants remains a challenge during the neonatal period in low and middle-income countries like Ethiopia, where no feeding alternatives and follow-up charts are available. Although extrauterine growth retardation is a common problem in preterm very low birth weight infants, there is a lack of evidence in resource-limited countries regarding patterns of postnatal weight gain. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the patterns of postnatal weight gain and its predictors among preterm very low birth weight infants in Ethiopia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted on a randomly selected sample of 412 neonates in Ethiopia. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with Stata version 14.0 software. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant predictors. Model fitness and assumptions were assessed. Associations were reported using adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS

In the current study, 14.6% (95% CI: 10.4-20.1) of neonates had adequate postnatal weight gain at discharge. Spontaneous vaginal delivery [AOR: 2.54; 95% CI (1.17, 5.54)], birth Z-score > -1.29 [AOR: 4.51; 95% CI (1.43, 14.16)], early feeding initiation time [AOR: 3.36; 95% CI (1.63, 6.92)], and respiratory distress syndrome [AOR: 0.31; 95% CI (0.12, 0.78)] were significant predictors for postnatal weight gain among very low birth weight neonates in Ethiopia.

CONCLUSION

The postnatal weight gain reported in this study was low as compared to the national figure. Mode of delivery, birth z-score, initiation time of the first feeding, and respiratory distress syndrome were associated with postnatal weight gain. The Federal Ministry of Health, stakeholders, national neonatal associations, and non-governmental organizations should work collaboratively to promote vaginal delivery and early initiation of feeding and develop guidelines specifically tailored for this special population. Furthermore, healthcare providers should prioritize and focus on neonates who have respiratory distress and low Z-scores.

Predictors of neonatal mortality among neonates in Tigray regional state, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Since 2015, Ethiopia is committed to lowering the death rate for children under five and it is one of the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa that has accomplished the fourth Millennium Development Goal. However, in Ethiopia, neonatal death has remained a serious public health concern, with greater rates found in Tigray regional state and the predictors aren't well recognized. The goal of this study was to ascertain the prevalence of neonatal death in the Tigray regional State as well as any relevant risk factors.

METHODS

This study performed a secondary data analysis of the 2016 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) report. Information was gathered on 716 neonates who were born five years before the survey began. Risk factors for neonatal mortality were thought to include mother and neonate demographics, health, and environmental factors. The study employed multivariable logistic regression model analysis and descriptive statistics to identify significant correlates of neonatal mortality.

RESULTS

In Tigray regional state, the overall prevalence of neonatal mortality was 4.3% (95% CI: 3.06, 6.10). The multivariable logistic regression model analysis revealed that factors such as multiple birth types (AOR = 15.3, 95% CI: 3.54, 65.84), birth order (2-4) (AOR = 4.88, 95% CI: 1.52, 15.7), sex of the neonate (being male) (AOR = 3.75, 95% CI: 1.45, 9.75), home place of delivery (AOR = 7.4, 95% CI: 2.0, 27.6), and neonates born to mothers aged 20-34 years (AOR = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.087, 0.58) were significantly risk factors associated with a higher risk of neonatal mortality rate.

CONCLUSIONS

The study recognized the sex of the neonate, birth order, mother's age, place of delivery, and birth type as potential risk factors for neonatal mortality. The prevalence of neonatal mortality indicated that the neonatal mortality rate in Tigray regional state was higher than the national average. To reduce neonatal mortality, targeted interventions should focus on high-risk groups, such as mothers delivering at home and those with multiple births.

Epidemiology of Early Neonatal Mortality in an Eastern Ethiopian NICU: Insights From Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital

Background. Early neonatal mortality remains a significant public health challenge in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study is designed to investigate the magnitude and underlying factors associated with early neonatal mortality among infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital in Eastern Ethiopia. Methods. an institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from November 20 to December 20, 2021, by reviewing the medical records of 432 neonates admitted from September 11, 2018, to September 10, 2021. Data were cleaned, entered into Epi Data 3.1, and analyzed using Stata 15. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed with statistical significance set at a P-value <.05. Results. The study found that the magnitude of early neonatal mortality was 10.6% (95% CI: 8.06, 13.94). The primary contributors to early neonatal mortality was early onset neonatal sepsis (56%), preterm birth (52.2%), and perinatal asphyxia (32.6%). Notably, early onset neonatal sepsis (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 2.31, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06, 5.05), respiratory distress syndrome (AOR = 3.98, 95% CI: 1.97, 8.05), and low birth weight (AOR = 3.70, 95% CI: 1.67, 8.18) were independently associated with early neonatal mortality. Conclusion. The study focuses on the significance of early neonatal mortality in Ethiopia, with key factors such as early onset neonatal sepsis, respiratory distress syndrome, and low birth weight contributing to this issue. The advancements in preventive interventions and early management of high-risk neonates offer promise in reducing early neonatal deaths.

Determinants of mortality among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit at public hospitals, in the Somali region, eastern Ethiopia: unmatched case-control study

Introduction

neonatal death is a global issue in both developed and developing countries. Evidence on determinants of neonatal mortality is scarce, particularly in the pastoralist and agro-pastoralist areas of Ethiopia, including the Somali region. This study aimed to identify the determinants of mortality among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units at selected public hospitals, in the Somali region, eastern Ethiopia.

Methods

an unmatched case-control study design was employed from January 1st-30th, 2020. The total sample size was 312 neonates (156 cases and 156 controls) who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit from January 2018 to December 30th, 2019. A simple random sampling technique was used to select neonates. The data were collected by a structured checklist. Data entry and analysis were done by EpiData version 4.6 and SPSS version 23, respectively. Binary logistic regression using bivariate and multivariable analysis was done to identify determinants. Odds ratios were computed at 95% CI and a P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

a total of 310 neonates with complete medical charts (155 cases and 155 control) were included in the study. Lack of antenatal care (AOR 4.71; 95%CI: 1.41-15.75), rural residence (AOR=8.38; 95%CI: 2.22-31.69), premature rupture of membrane (AOR=4.29; 95%CI: 1.21-15.19), five-minutes APGAR score below-seven (AOR=9.87; 95%CI: 2.30-42.33), prenatal asphyxia (AOR=14.71; 95%CI: 2.79-77.33) and length of hospital stay ≤3 days (AOR=15.09; 95%CI: 2.89-78.62) were significantly associated with neonatal mortality.

Conclusion

this study identifies rural residence, lack of antenatal care, premature rupture of membranes, low APGAR scores, prenatal asphyxia, and short hospital stays as determinants. Hence, improving access to basic health services such as antenatal care and early screening for pregnant mothers and newborns is critical. By prioritizing these interventions, healthcare systems can effectively work towards reducing neonatal mortality rates, ultimately improving the health outcomes of infants and their mothers.

Neonatal mortality and associated factors among newborns in Mogadishu, Somalia: a multicenter hospital-based cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Neonatal mortality is a significant public health problem in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Somalia, where limited data exists about this. Mogadishu, the densely populated capital, faces a high rate of neonatal mortality, but this has not been widely studied on a national level. Healthcare providers and policymakers are working to reduce newborn deaths, but a comprehensive understanding of the contributing factors is crucial for effective strategies. Therefore, this study aims to determine the magnitude of neonatal death and identify factors associated with it in Mogadishu, Somalia.

METHOD

A multicenter hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted to collect data from participants at 5 purposively selected hospitals in Mogadishu, Somalia. A well-structured, reliable, self-developed, validated questionnaire containing socio-demographic, maternal, and neonatal characteristics was used as a research tool. Descriptive statistics were used for categorical and continuous variables presented. Chi-square and logistic regression were used to identify factors associated with neonatal mortality at a significant level of α = 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 513 participants were recruited for the study. The prevalence of neonatal mortality was 26.5% [95%CI = 22.6-30.2]. In a multivariable model, 9 variables were found: female newborns (AOR = 1.98, 95%CI = 1.22-3.19), those their mothers who did not attend ANC visits (AOR = 2.59, 95%CI = 1.05-6.45), those their mothers who did not take tetanus toxoid vaccination (AOR = 1.82, 95%CI = 1.01-3.28), those their mothers who delivered in instrumental assistant mode (AOR = 3.01, 95%CI = 1.38-6.56), those who had neonatal sepsis (AOR = 2.24, (95%CI = 1.26-3.98), neonatal tetanus (AOR = 16.03, 95%CI = 3.69-69.49), and pneumonia (AOR = 4.06, 95%CI = 1.60-10.31) diseases during hospitalization, premature (AOR = 1.99, 95%CI = 1.00-3.94) and postmature (AOR = 4.82, 95%CI = 1.64-14.16) neonates, those with a birth weight of less than 2500 gr (AOR = 4.82, 95%CI = 2.34-9.95), those who needed resuscitation after delivery (AOR = 2.78, 95%CI = 1.51-5.13), and those who did not initiate early breastfeeding (AOR = 2.28, 95%CI = 1.12-4.66), were significantly associated with neonatal mortality compared to their counterparts.

CONCLUSION

In this study, neonatal mortality was high prevalence. Therefore, the intervention efforts should focus on strategies to reduce maternal and neonatal factors related to neonatal mortality. Healthcare workers and health institutions should provide appropriate antenatal, postnatal, and newborn care.

Time, cause of early neonatal death, and its predictors among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units at Bahir Dar City public hospitals, northwest Ethiopia: a prospective follow-up study

Background

Globally, 75% of neonatal deaths occur during the first weeks of life and more than 43% of deaths are covered by sub-Saharan Africa. Health-related policymakers and decision-makers need to use evidence-based treatments to reduce the time to early neonatal death and associated predictors. However, there are limited studies on median survival time, cause, incidence, and predictors in the study area as well as the country. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to assess time, the cause of early neonatal death, and its predictors among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units at Bahir Dar City public hospitals in northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based prospective follow-up study design was conducted among 387 early neonates selected by systematic sampling between 22 February and 22 April 2023. Statistical software, Epi Data version 4.6 and Stata version 14, was used for entry and analysis, respectively. Proportional hazard assumption and model fitness were checked by the Schoenfeld residual test and the Cox-Snell residual test, respectively. Descriptive statistics, the Kaplan-Meier curve, and the life table were used to describe variables. The Cox regression analysis model was fitted to identify the predictors of early neonatal death.

Result

During the follow-up time, 59 (15.25%) early neonates died, with an incidence of 31.79 per 1,000 early neonate days [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.024-0.041]. The leading causes of early neonatal death were prematurity complications, asphyxia, sepsis, meconium aspiration syndrome, and necrotizing enterocolitis. The mean survival time was 2.72 days. Being born from a multigravida mother [adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) 4.34; 95% CI: 1.63-11.55], a grand multigravida mother (AHR 3.50; 95% CI: 1.12-10.95), respiratory distress syndrome (AHR 2.60; 95% CI: 1.03-6.58), birth asphyxia (AHR 7.51; 95% CI: 2.30-24.51), a small gestational age (AHR 2.05; 95% CI: 1.08-4.92), and being unable to exclusively breastfeed (AHR 3.46; 95% CI: 1.52-7.88) were significantly associated predictors for time to early neonatal death.

Conclusion and recommendations

The incidence of early neonatal death was high, and the mean survival time was 2.72 days. Gravidity, respiratory distress syndrome, birth asphyxia, and being unable to exclusively breastfeed were identified as predictors of early neonatal death. Therefore, future research will consist of long-term prospective follow-up studies at a multicenter, nationwide level.

Time to death and predictors of mortality among early neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit of Addis Ababa public Hospitals, Ethiopia: Institutional-based prospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

The largest risk of child mortality occurs within the first week after birth. Early neonatal mortality remains a global public health concern, especially in sub-Saharan African countries. More than 75% of neonatal death occurs within the first seven days of birth, but there are limited prospective follow- up studies to determine time to death, incidence and predictors of death in Ethiopia particularly in the study area. The study aimed to determine incidence and predictors of early neonatal mortality among neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of Addis Ababa public hospitals, Ethiopia 2021.

METHODS

Institutional prospective cohort study was conducted in four public hospitals found in Addis Ababa City, Ethiopia from June 7th, 2021 to July 13th, 2021. All early neonates consecutively admitted to the corresponding neonatal intensive care unit of selected hospitals were included in the study and followed until 7 days-old. Data were coded, cleaned, edited, and entered into Epi data version 3.1 and then exported to STATA software version 14.0 for analysis. The Kaplan Meier survival curve with log- rank test was used to compare survival time between groups. Moreover, both bi-variable and multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to identify the predictors of early neonatal mortality. All variables having P-value ≤0.2 in the bi-variable analysis model were further fitted to the multivariable model. The assumption of the model was checked graphically and using a global test. The goodness of fit of the model was performed using the Cox-Snell residual test and it was adequate.

RESULTS

A total of 391 early neonates with their mothers were involved in this study. The incidence rate among admitted early neonates was 33.25 per 1000 neonate day's observation [95% confidence interval (CI): 26.22, 42.17]. Being preterm birth [adjusted hazard ratio (AHR): 6.0 (95% CI 2.02, 17.50)], having low fifth minute Apgar score [AHR: 3.93 (95% CI; 1.5, 6.77)], low temperatures [AHR: 2.67 (95%CI; 1.41, 5.02)] and, resuscitating of early neonate [AHR: 2.80 (95% CI; 1.51,5.10)] were associated with increased hazard of early neonatal death. However, early neonatal crying at birth [AHR: 0.48 (95%CI; 0.26, 0.87)] was associated with reduced hazard of death.

CONCLUSIONS

Early neonatal mortality is high in Addis Ababa public Hospitals. Preterm birth, low five-minute Apgar score, hypothermia and crying at birth were found to be independent predictors of early neonatal death. Good care and attention to neonate with low Apgar scores, premature, and hypothermic neonates.

Antenatal Care Reduces Neonatal Mortality in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

BACKGROUND

Neonatal deaths remain a serious public health concern in Ethiopia; being one of the top five countries contributing to half of the neonatal deaths worldwide. Although antenatal care (ANC) is assumed as one of the viable options that contribute to neonatal survival, findings from original studies indicated disparities in the effect of ANC on neonatal mortality. Thus, this review aimed to determine the pooled effect of ANC on neonatal mortality in Ethiopia.

METHODS

Databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, HINARI, and Cochrane Central Library were searched for articles using keywords. Selection of eligible articles and data extraction were conducted by an independent author. The risk of a bias assessment tool for non-randomized studies was used to assess the quality of the articles. Comprehensive meta-analysis version 2 software was used for meta-analysis. Heterogeneity and publication bias of included studies were assessed using I2 test statistic and Egger test, respectively. The random-effect model was employed; an outcome is reported using a risk ratio with a 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Of 28 included studies, 20 showed receiving at least one ANC visit had a significant association with neonatal mortality. Accordingly, the estimated pooled risk ratio for neonatal mortality was 0.59 (95% CI 0.45, 0.77) among infants born to women who had at least one ANC visit compared to infants born to women who had no ANC visits.

CONCLUSION

This finding indicated that neonatal mortality was decreased among infants born to women who had at least one ANC visit compared to infants born to women who had no ANC visit. Therefore, promoting and strengthening ANC service utilization during pregnancy would accelerate the reduction of neonatal mortality in Ethiopia.

Neonatal Mortality at Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia Over 5 years: Trends and Associated Factors

Background

Globally, neonatal mortality remains a serious catastrophic problem for newborns, particularly in a low-resource setting. There were no neonatal mortality trend studies in the study area.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the trends and risk factors of neonatal mortality at the neonatal intensive care unit of Felege Hiwot Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 870 admitted neonates from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2020 in the neonatal intensive care unit by a stratified simple random sampling technique. Data were entered into EpiData and then exported to STATA 14.0 for analysis. A linear regression statistical model was used for trend analysis and binary logistic regression was carried out to identify explanatory variables of neonatal mortality.

Results

Overall, neonatal mortality averagely increased by 2.1% per year throughout the 5 consecutive years. In this study, rural residency [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.96, 95% confidence interval (CI): (1.26, 3.06)], birth asphyxia (AOR: 7.73, 95% CI: 4.31, 13.84), congenital deformity (AOR: 3.61, 95% CI: 1.17, 11.18), low birth weight (AOR: 2.13, 95% CI: 1.23, 3.67), respiratory distress syndrome (AOR: 3.32, 95% CI: 1.97, 5.59), Ambu-bag resuscitation (AOR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.07, 0.38), taking antibiotics (AOR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.27, 0.90), glucose (AOR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.30, 0.72), and oxygen (AOR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.41) were associated with neonatal mortality.

Conclusions

This 5-year trend analysis revealed an increased trend of NMR, indicating more work is still needed to make progress toward meeting the SDG goal by 2030. Rural residency, birth asphyxia, congenital deformity, low birth weight, respiratory distress syndrome, Ambu-bag resuscitation, taking antibiotics, glucose, and oxygen were associated with neonatal mortality. Therefore, all stakeholders shall give due attention to reducing this timely-increasing trend of neonatal mortality.

Global Prevalence of Severe Neonatal Jaundice among Hospital Admissions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Evidence regarding the adverse burden of severe neonatal jaundice (SNJ) in hospitalized neonates in resource-constrained settings is sparse. We attempted to determine the prevalence of SNJ, described using clinical outcome markers, in all World Health Organization (WHO) regions in the world. Data were sourced from Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, Cochrane Library, African Journals Online, and Global Index Medicus. Hospital-based studies, including the total number of neonatal admissions with at least one clinical outcome marker of SNJ, defined as acute bilirubin encephalopathy (ABE), exchange blood transfusions (EBT), jaundice-related death, or abnormal brainstem audio-evoked response (aBAER), were independently reviewed for inclusion in this meta-analysis. Of 84 articles, 64 (76.19%) were from low- and lower-middle-income countries (LMICs), and 14.26% of the represented neonates with jaundice in these studies had SNJ. The prevelance of SNJ among all admitted neonates varied across WHO regions, ranging from 0.73 to 3.34%. Among all neonatal admissions, SNJ clinical outcome markers for EBT ranged from 0.74 to 3.81%, with the highest percentage observed in the African and South-East Asian regions; ABE ranged from 0.16 to 2.75%, with the highest percentages observed in the African and Eastern Mediterranean regions; and jaundice-related deaths ranged from 0 to 1.49%, with the highest percentage observed in the African and Eastern Mediterranean regions. Among the cohort of neonates with jaundice, the prevalence of SNJ ranged from 8.31 to 31.49%, with the highest percentage observed in the African region; EBT ranged from 9.76 to 28.97%, with the highest percentages reported for the African region; ABE was highest in the Eastern Mediterranean (22.73%) and African regions (14.51%). Jaundice-related deaths were 13.02%, 7.52%, 2.01% and 0.07%, respectively, in the Eastern Mediterranean, African, South-East Asian and European regions, with none reported in the Americas. aBAER numbers were too small, and the Western Pacific region was represented by only one study, limiting the ability to make regional comparisons. The global burden of SNJ in hospitalized neonates remains high, causing substantial, preventable morbidity and mortality especially in LMICs.

Determinants of early neonatal mortality (hospital based retrospective cohort study in Somali region of Ethiopia)

Early neonatal mortality occurs when a newborn dies within the first seven days of life. Despite interventions, neonatal mortality remains public health problem over time in Ethiopia (33 per 1000 live births). Determinants varies on level of neonatal mortality. The study's goal was to determine magnitude of early newborn death, as well as its determinants and causes in Newborn Intensive Care Unit of Referral hospital in Ethiopia's Somali region. Health facility based retrospective study review was conducted between May 2019 to May 2021 in Shiek Hassan Yabare Referral Hospital of Jigjiga University of Ethiopia. All neonates admitted at neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with complete data and get registered using the new NICU registration book from May 2019 to May 2021 were included. Kobo toolkit was used for data collection and analyzed in SPSS 20. The magnitude of early neonatal mortality rate was defined as death between 0 and 7 days. Logistic regression model was used to estimate maternal and neonatal characteristics as a determinant variables on neonatal mortality. The statistical significance was considered at P-value < 0.05. The magnitude of early neonatal mortality rate of Ethiopia's Somali region is estimated to be 130 per 1000 live births-that is say 130 newborn couldn't celebrate their seventh day in every 1000 live births. Hypothermia, prematurity, maternal death at birth and shorter length of stay in NICU were increasing the chance of neonatal mortality at early stage while neonatal resuscitation had shown protective effect against neonatal mortality. Similarly birth asphyxia, preterm, sepsis, and congenital abnormalities were major causes of admission and death in the NICU. The magnitude of early neonatal mortality is considerable and most of the determinants are preventable. Enhancing quality of intra-partum and NICU care including infection prevention, managing hypothermia and neonatal resuscitation as per the national standard within the first golden hour is key.

Timing of perinatal death; causes, circumstances, and regional variations among reviewed deaths in Ethiopia

INTRODUCTION

Ethiopia is one of the countries facing a very high burden of perinatal death in the world. Despite taking several measures to reduce the burden of stillbirth, the pace of decline was not that satisfactory. Although limited perinatal mortality studies were conducted at a national level, none of the studies stressed the timing of perinatal death. Thus, this study is aimed at determining the magnitude and risk factors that are associated with the timing of perinatal death in Ethiopia.

METHODS

National perinatal death surveillance data were used in the study. A total of 3814 reviewed perinatal deaths were included in the study. Multilevel multinomial analysis was employed to examine factors associated with the timing of perinatal death in Ethiopia. The final model was reported through the adjusted relative risk ratio with its 95% Confidence Interval, and variables with a p-value less than 0.05 were declared statistically significant predictors of the timing of perinatal death. Finally, a multi-group analysis was carried out to observe inter-regional variation among selected predictors.

RESULT

Among the reviewed perinatal deaths, 62.8% occurred during the neonatal period followed by intrapartum stillbirth, unknown time of stillbirth, and antepartum stillbirth, each contributing 17.5%,14.3%, and 5.4% of perinatal deaths, respectively. Maternal age, place of delivery, maternal health condition, antennal visit, maternal education, cause of death (infection and congenital and chromosomal abnormalities), and delay to decide to seek care were individual-level factors significantly associated with the timing of perinatal death. While delay reaching a health facility, delay to receive optimal care health facility, type of health facility and type region were provincial-level factors correlated with the timing of perinatal death. A statistically significant inter-regional variation was observed due to infection and congenital anomalies in determining the timing of perinatal death.

CONCLUSION

Six out of ten perinatal deaths occurred during the neonatal period, and the timing of perinatal death was determined by neonatal, maternal, and facility factors. As a way forward, a concerted effort is needed to improve the community awareness of institutional delivery and ANC visit. Moreover, strengthening the facility level readiness in availing quality service through all paths of the continuum of care with special attention to the lower-level facilities and selected poor-performing regions is mandatory.

Cause and risk factors of early neonatal death in Ethiopia

Background

Globally, three fourth of neonatal deaths occur during the early neonatal period, this makes it a critical time to reduce the burden of neonatal death. The survival status of a newborn is determined by the individual (neonatal and maternal), and facility-level factors. Several studies were conducted in Ethiopia to assess early neonatal death; however, most of the studies had limited participants and did not well address the two main determinant factors covered in this study. In response to this gap, this study attempted to examine factors related to early neonatal death based on perinatal death surveillance data in consideration of all the possible determinants of early neonatal death.

Methods

The national perinatal death surveillance data were used for this study. A total of 3814 reviewed perinatal deaths were included in the study. Bayesian multilevel parametric survival analysis was employed to identify factors affecting the survival of newborns during the early neonatal period. Adjusted time ratio (ATR) with 95% Bayesian credible intervals (CrI) was reported and log-likelihood was used for model comparison. Statistical significance was declared based on the non-inclusion of 1.0 in the 95% CrI.

Result

More than half (52.4%) of early neonatal deaths occurred within the first two days of birth. Per the final model, as gestational age increases by a week the risk of dying during the early neonatal period is reduced by 6% [ATR = 0.94,95%CrI:(0.93–0.96)]. There was an increased risk of death during the early neonatal period among neonates deceased due to birth injury as compared to neonates who died due to infection [ATR = 2.05,95%CrI:(1.30–3.32)]; however, perinates who died due to complication of an intrapartum event had a lower risk of death than perinates who died due to infection [ATR = 0.87,95%CrI:(0.83–0.90)]. As the score of delay one and delay three increases by one unit, the newborn’s likelihood of surviving during the early neonatal period is reduced by 4% [ATR = 1.04,95%CrI:(1.01–1.07)] and 21% [ATR = 1.21,95%CrI:(1.15–1.27)] respectively. Neonates born from mothers living in a rural area had a higher risk of dying during the early neonatal period than their counterparts living in an urban area [ATR = 3.53,95%CrI:(3.34–3.69)]. As compared to neonates treated in a primary health facility, being treated in secondary [ATR = 1.14,95%CrI:(1.02–1.27)] and tertiary level of care [ATR = 1.15,95%CrI:(1.04–1.25)] results in a higher risk of death during the early neonatal period.

Conclusion

The survival of a newborn during the early neonatal period is determined by both individual (gestational age, cause of death, and delay one) and facility (residence, type of health facility and delay three) level factors. Thus, to have a positive early neonatal outcome, a tailored intervention is needed for the three major causes of death (i.e Infection, birth injury, and complications of the intrapartum period). Furthermore, promoting maternal health, improving the health-seeking behaviour of mothers, strengthening facility readiness, and narrowing down inequalities in service provision are recommended to improve the newborn’s outcomes during the early neonatal period.

Neonatal mortality and associated factors among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit at public hospitals of Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia: A multicenter retrospective analysis

Background

Neonatal mortality remains a public health problem in the developing world. Globally, around 2.5 million neonatal deaths are reported annually with the highest mortality concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. In comparison with countries demonstrating the lowest neonatal mortality, the risk of mortality is over 30 times higher in sub-Saharan Africa. Ethiopia is among the countries with a high neonatal mortality rate, and the burden of this mortality remains unreported in many pastoralist areas such as Somali Regional State, Eastern Ethiopia. We aimed to investigate factors associated with neonatal mortality in public Hospitals of the Somali Regional State in Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 1^st to 30^th, 2020 in three public Hospitals of Somali Regional State in Eastern Ethiopia. A total of 510 neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units from January 2018 to December 2019 were enrolled in the study. The charts of neonates were randomly selected and retrieved. Data were collected using a pretested and validated structured questionnaire. The collected were entered into Epidata version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 22 (IBM SPSS Statistics, 2013) for further analysis. Descriptive statistics were carried out using frequency tables, proportions, and summary measures. Predictors were assessed using a multivariable logistic regression analysis model and reported using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI). Statistical significance was considered at a p-value <0.05.

Results

Overall, the neonatal mortality was 18.6% [95%CI (15.31, 22.30)], equating to a rate of 186 per 1000 live births. The most common causes of mortality were prematurity (44.6%), low birth weight (33.5%), and birth asphyxia (27.6%). In the final model of multivariable analysis, predictors such as: lack of antenatal care follow-up[AOR = 3.71, 95%CI (2.13, 6.44)], neonatal sepsis [AOR = 1.84, 95%CI (1.07, 3.19], preterm birth [AOR = 2.20, 95%CI (1.02, 4.29], and birth asphyxia [AOR = 2.40, 95%CI(1.26,4.43)], and birth weight of less than 2500gms[AOR = 3.40, 95%CI(1.92, 6.01)] were statistically associated with neonatal mortality.

Conclusion

In this study, the neonatal mortality rate was high compared to national and global targets because one in five neonates dies due to preventable causes. Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors were identified as predictors. This result calls for all stakeholders to provide due attention to low birth weight and premature babies. Early identification and management of birth asphyxia and neonatal sepsis are also very crucial to reduce the risks of neonatal deaths.

Neonatal Mortality Rate and Its Determinants: A Community-Based Panel Study in Ethiopia

Background

The Sustainable Development Goals specifically target a reduction in neonatal mortality rates. However, the highest neonatal mortality rates occur in sub-Saharan Africa, including Ethiopia. Although several factors contributing to these high rates have been explored, there continues to be a general dearth of studies and inconsistencies of factors to understand the problem. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the prevalence and factors associated with neonatal mortality in Ethiopia.

Methods

A panel study was conducted among 2,855 pregnant or recently postpartum women selected using the multistage cluster sampling technique from October 2019 to September 2020. Data were collected by experienced and trained female resident enumerators and coded, cleaned, and analyzed using STATA version 16.1 software. We used the Kaplan-Meier survival curve to show the pattern of neonatal deaths during the first 28 days of life. Frequencies and rates were reported along with the percentages and using a 95% confidence interval, respectively. The Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to explore the association of explanatory and outcome variables. Finally, an adjusted hazard ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to report the results, with a p < 0.05 to declare statistical significance.

Results

The neonatal mortality rate was 26.84 (95% CI: 19.43, 36.96) per 1,000 live births. Neonates born to rural resident mothers (AHR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.05, 4.54), mothers of advanced age (AHR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.19, 5.21), and primipara mothers (AHR = 3.16, 95% CI: 1.52, 6.60) had a higher hazard of neonatal mortality. However, neonates born to women who attended technical and vocational level education (AHR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.62) had a lower hazard of neonatal mortality.

Conclusions

The neonatal mortality rate in Ethiopia is high, with increased risk among specific subsets of the population. The findings highlight that neonatal survival can be improved through tailored interventions for rural residents, emerging regions, and primipara women by improving female education and avoiding pregnancy at an advanced maternal age to achieve Sustainable Development Goal target 3.2.

Predictors of respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis and mortality among preterm neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit in northern Ethiopia

PURPOSE

We aim to identify the predictors of respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal sepsis and mortality among preterm neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, northern Ethiopia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An institutional-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 816 preterm neonates. An association between variables was decided at p-value ≤0.05, or AOR, 95% CI.

RESULTS

Neonatal sepsis was significantly associated with cesarean section (AOR = 0.62, CI (0.43-0.91)), male (AOR = 1.6, CI (1.12-2.28)), 4-6 APGAR score at 1-min (AOR = 1.67, CI (1.15-2.42)) and hospitalization for more than 14 days (AOR = 2.62, CI (1.5-4.58)) days. Also, the determinants of respiratory distress syndrome were compound fetal presentation (AOR = 2.17, CI (1-4.71)), < 28 weeks of gestational age (AOR = 3.32, CI (1.07-10.22)), 28-31 6/7 weeks of gestational age (AOR = 4.19, CI (2.39-7.33)), 1-1.49 kg birth weight (AOR = 4.22, CI (1.79-9.93)) and 4-6 APGAR score at 1-min (AOR = 2.22, CI (1.54-3.19)). Respiratory distress syndrome (AOR =12, CI (5.42-26.94)) and perinatal asphyxia (AOR = 3.42, CI (1.64-7.11)) were also associated with preterm neonatal mortality.

CONCLUSION

The predictors of respiratory distress syndrome were fetal presentation, gestational age, birth weight and 1st minute APGAR score. Also, neonatal sepsis was significantly associated with mode of delivery, sex, 1st minute APGAR score, respiratory distress syndrome and duration of hospitalization. Lastly, the predictors of mortality were respiratory distress syndrome, 1st minute APGAR score and perinatal asphyxia.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

It will give clues to mobilize resources towards the main predictors of comorbidity and mortality in preterms in the health care settings.

Birth asphyxia, determinants, and its management among neonates admitted to NICU in Harari and Dire Dawa Public Hospitals, eastern Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Despite a declining neonatal mortality rate globally, Ethiopia has scored 29-30 deaths per 1,000 live births. Birth asphyxia is a major contributor to neonatal mortality, where 4-9 million newborns develop birth asphyxia each year. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of birth asphyxia, its determinants, and its management among neonates admitted to the NICU in Harari and Dire Dawa public hospitals.

METHODS

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 409 randomly selected neonates and their index mothers admitted to neonatal intensive care units of public hospitals in Harari and Dire Dawa from June 20 to August 20, 2021. Data were collected through card review and interviewer-administered questionnaires. The collected data were entered into Epi data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Logistic regression models were fitted to identify factors associated with birth asphyxia. Adjusted odds ratios along with 95% CIs were estimated to measure the strength of the association, and statistical significance was declared at p-value <0.05.

RESULTS

One-fifth of neonates [20.8% (95% CI: 16.4, 24.6%)] had birth asphyxia. Neonates born by instrumental delivery (AOR = 2.29, 95% CI: 1.10, 4.76) and neonates born to mother with PIH (AOR = 3.49, 95% CI: 1.47, 8.27), PROM (AOR = 2.23, 95% CI: 1.17, 4.26), and chorioamnionitis (AOR = 3.26, 95% CI: 1.10, 9.61) were more likely to have birth asphyxia compared to their counterpart. Ventilation with a bag and mask 50(58.8), putting on free oxygen 19(22.4), and endotracheal intubation 15(17.6) were taken as management methods.

CONCLUSION

One out of five neonates had birth asphyxia. This urges care providers to adhere to national guidelines of obstetrics and neonatal continuum care. They also need to decrease instrumental delivery and treat PIH, PROM, and chorioamnionitis.

Magnitude of preterm hospital neonatal mortality and associated factors in northern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the magnitude of preterm neonatal mortality in hospitals and associated factors in northern Ethiopia.

DESIGN

Institutional-based cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Comprehensive specialised hospitals in the Tigray region, northern Ethiopia.

PARTICIPANTS

Preterm neonates admitted in Ayder and Aksum comprehensive specialised hospitals PRIMARY OUTCOME: Magnitude of preterm neonatal mortality.

SECONDARY OUTCOME

Factors associated with preterm neonatal mortality RESULT: This study was conducted from 1 April 2019 to 15 May 2019 among 336 participants with a response rate of 96.8%. The magnitude of preterm neonatal mortality was 28.6% (95% CI: 24.0 to 33.7). In multivariable logistic regression, respiratory distress syndrome (adjusted odd ratio (AOR)=2.85; 95% CI: 1.35 to 6.00), apnoea of prematurity (AOR=5.45; 95% CI: 1.32 to 22.5), nulli parity (AOR=3.63; 95% CI: 1.59 to 8.24) and grand parity (AOR=3.21; 95% CI: 1.04 to 9.94) were significant factors associated with preterm neonatal mortality. However, receiving Kangaroo mother care (AOR=0.08; 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.20) and feeding initiated during hospitalisation (AOR=0.07; 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.15) were protective against preterm neonatal mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The magnitude of preterm neonatal mortality in hospitals was still high. Interventions geared towards curbing preterm in-hospital neonatal mortality should strengthen early diagnosis and treatment of preterm newborns with respiratory distress syndrome and apnoea of prematurity; while concomitantly reinforcing the implementation of kangaroo care and early feeding initiation is important.

Derivation and Validation of a Risk Score to Predict Mortality of Early Neonates at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: The END in NICU Score

BACKGROUND

Early neonatal death is death of infants in the first week of life. And 34% to 92% of neonatal deaths happen within 7 days of postnatal period. Thus, the early neonatal period is the most critical time for an infant, requiring different strategies to prevent mortality. Among strategies, deriving and implementing early warning scores is crucial to predict early neonatal mortality earlier upon hospital admission.

OBJECTIVE

To derive and validate a risk score to predict mortality of early neonates at Felege Hiwot Specialized Hospital neonatal intensive care unit, Bahir Dar, 2021.

METHODS

The document review was conducted from February 24, to April 08, 2021, on all early neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2020. The total number of early neonates included in the derivation study was 1100. Data were collected by using checklists prepared on EpiCollect5 software. After exporting the data to R version 4.0.5 software, variables with (p < 0.25) from the simple binary regression were entered into a multiple logistic regression model, and significant variables (p < 0.05) were kept in the model. The discrimination and calibration were assessed. The model was internally validated using bootstrapping technique.

RESULTS

Admission weight, birth Apgar score, perinatal asphyxia, respiratory distress syndrome, mode of delivery, sepsis, and gestational age at birth remained in the final multiple logistic regression prediction model. The area under curve of receiver operating characteristic curve for early neonatal mortality score was 90.7%. The model retained excellent discrimination under internal validation. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value, negative predictive value of the model was 89.4%, 82.5%, 55.5%, and 96.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The derived score has an excellent discriminative ability and good prediction performance. This is an important tool for predicting early neonatal mortality in neonatal intensive care units at admission.

Development and Validation of a Clinical Prognostic Risk Score to Predict Early Neonatal Mortality, Ethiopia: A Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve Analysis

Background

Early neonatal death is the death of a live-born baby within the first seven days of life, which is 73% of all postnatal deaths in the globe. This study aimed to develop and validate a prognostic clinical risk tool for the prediction of early neonatal death.

Methods

A prospective follow-up study was conducted among 393 neonates at Debre Tabor Referral hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Multivariable logistic regression model was employed to identify potential prognostic determinants for early neonatal mortality. Area under receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) was used to check the model discrimination probability using ‘pROC’ R-package. Model calibration plot was checked using ‘givitiR’ R-package. Finally, a risk score prediction tool was developed for ease of applicability. Decision curve analysis was done for cost-benefit analysis and to check the clinical impact of the model.

Results

Overall, 15.27% (95% CI: 12.03–19.18) of neonates had the event of death during the follow-up period. Maternal undernutrition, antenatal follow-up less than four times, birth asphyxia, low birth weight, and not exclusive breastfeeding were the prognostic predictors of early neonatal mortality. The AUROC for the reduced model was 88.7% (95% CI: 83.8–93.6%), which had good discriminative probability. The AUROC of the simplified risk score algorithm was 87.8% (95% CI, 82.7–92.9%). The sensitivity and specificity of the risk score tool was 70% and 89%, respectively. The true prediction accuracy of the risk score tool to predict early neonatal mortality was 86%, and the false prediction probability was 13%.

Conclusion

We developed an early neonatal death prediction tool using easily available maternal and neonatal characteristics for resource-limited settings. This risk prediction using risk score is an easily applicable tool to identify neonates at a higher risk of having early neonatal mortality. This risk score tool would offer an opportunity to reduce early neonatal mortality, thus improving the overall early neonatal death in a resource-limited setting.

The burden of hyaline membrane disease, mortality and its determinant factors among preterm neonates admitted at Debre Tabor General Hospital, North Central Ethiopia: A retrospective follow up study

BACKGROUND

Hyaline membrane disease (HMD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in preterm newborn babies. Though, there are studies related to Hyaline membrane disease inclusive of all neonates, studies related to the burden among preterm neonates were limited. In addition, increasing neonatal mortality in Ethiopia could be related to increase in the burden of hyaline membrane disease among preterm neonates. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the burden of hyaline membrane disease, mortality and its associated factors among preterm neonate admitted at neonatal intensive care unit, North Central Ethiopia.

METHODOLOGY

An institution-based retrospective follow-up study was conducted among 535 preterm neonates admitted at neonatal intensive care unit from January 1, 2014-December 30, 2017. Data were entered into EPi-data 4.2.0.0 and transferred to STATA version 14 statistical software for statistical analysis. Binary logistic regression was used for the analysis. All variables with P-value < 0.25 during bi-variable analysis were considered for multivariable logistic regression. Level of statistical significance was declared at P value ≤0.05.

RESULTS

In the current study, proportion of hyaline membrane disease was 40% (95% CI; 35.8, 44.3) of which 49.5% died. Preterm neonate born with Gestational age of less than 34 weeks of age (Adjusted odd ratio (AOR = 2.64; 95 CI: 1.49, 4.66)), 5th minute Apgar score less than 7 (AOR = 2.2; 95% CI: 1.20, 4.07), and newborn with birth weight of less than 1500 gram (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.3, 4.3) were predictors of hyaline membrane disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The mean gestational age (±) was 33.46 (±2.55) weeks. The incidence of hyaline membrane disease among preterm admissions was high. Preterm neonate born with gestational age of less than 34 weeks of age, asphyxiated newborns and newborn with birth weight of less than 1500 gram were predictors of hyaline membrane disease. So, emphasis should be given on early screening, follow up and timely interventions for preterm neonate.

Neonatal mortality among neonates admitted to NICU of Hiwot Fana specialized university hospital, eastern Ethiopia, 2020: a cross-sectional study design

Background

In Ethiopia, neonatal mortality is unacceptably high. Despite many efforts made by the government and other partners to reduce neonatal mortality; it has been increasing since 2014. Factors associated with neonatal mortality were explained by different researchers indifferently. There is no clear evidence to identify the magnitude of neonatal mortality and associated factors in the study area. The study aimed to assess the magnitude and factors associated with neonatal mortality.

Methods

Facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 834 randomly selected neonates. The study was conducted from February 20 to March 21, 2020. Data were extracted from medical records using a checklist adapted from the World Health Organization, and neonatal registration book. The data were inserted into Epi-data version 3.1 and then exported into SPSS window version 20 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were employed to identify the association between independent variables and the outcome variable.

Results

Magnitude of neonatal mortality was 14.4% (95% CI:11.9,16.7). Being neonates of mothers whose pregnancy was complicated with antepartum hemorrhage [AOR = 4.13, 95%CI: (1.92,8.85)], born from mothers with current pregnancy complicated with pregnancy-induced hypertension [AOR = 4.41, 95%CI: (1.97,9.86)], neonates of mothers with multiple pregnancy [AOR = 2.87, 95% CI (1.08,7.61)], neonates delivered at the health center [AOR = 5.05, 95%CI: (1.72,14.79)], low birth weight [AOR = 4.01, 95%CI (1.30,12.33)], having perinatal asphyxia [AOR =3.85, 95%CI: (1.83,8.10)], and having early-onset neonatal sepsis [AOR = 3.93, 95%CI: (1.84,8.41)] were factors significantly associated with neonatal mortality.

Conclusion

The proportion of neonatal mortality was relatively in line with other studies but still needs attention. Antepartum hemorrhage, Pregnancy-induced hypertension, place of delivery, low birth weight, having perinatal asphyxia, and having neonatal sepsis were independent factors. The hospital, and health care workers should give attention to neonates admitted to intensive care units by strengthening the quality of care given at neonatal intensive care unit like infection prevention and strengthening early detection and treatment of health problems during Antenatal care visit.

Rate and Predictors of Neonatal Jaundice in Northwest Ethiopia: Prospective Cohort Study

Background

Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common clinical disorders occurred worldwide. About 1.1 million neonates develop jaundice per year globally and the vast majority of them found in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. There is a paucity of evidence on the incidence rate and predictors of neonatal jaundice in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study was aimed at determining the rate and predictors of neonatal jaundice in the northwest, Ethiopia.

Methods

A prospective cohort study design was conducted at Debre Markos comprehensive, specialized Hospitals using 334 neonates from October 1, 2019, to June 30, 2020. Using a systematic random sampling technique, the study subjects were drawn. Data were entered into the Epi-Data^TM Version 4.2 and analyzed using STATA^TM Version 14.0. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to estimate the survival time. A generalized Log rank test was used to compare the survival curves of different categorical variables. Finally, both bi-variable and multivariable Cox-proportional hazards regression models were used to identify the predictors of neonatal jaundice.

The Results

The overall incidence rate of jaundice among neonates was 4.5 per 100 person-hours. Long duration of labor [ARR = 3.5; 95% confidence interval (CI), (2.8–8.7)], being male neonates [ARR= 5.2; 95% CI (3.5–7.3)], “O” blood group mothers [ARR = 4.5; 95% CI (3.4–10.3)], and having neonatal sepsis 3.4 [ARR=3.4; 95% CI: (2.5–6.1)] were predictors.

Conclusion

The incidence rate of jaundice was higher in this study than the finding of the previous one. Being male, prolonged duration of labor, “O” blood group mothers and sepsis were the significant predictors. Hence, an effort has to be made to decrease the incidence rate of neonatal jaundice through improving newborn care and timely intervention for neonates with sepsis and delivered at a long duration of time as well as the neonates born from “o” blood type mothers are our recommendation.

Effect of a Low-Dose/High-Frequency Training in Introducing a Nurse-Led Neonatal Advanced Life Support Service in a Referral Hospital in Ethiopia

Background and Objective: In Ethiopia, birth asphyxia causes ~30% of all neonatal deaths and 11-31% of deaths among neonates delivered in healthcare facilities that have breathing difficulty at birth. This study aimed to examine the impact of low-dose, high-frequency (LDHF) training for introducing a nurse-led neonatal advanced life support (NALS) service in a tertiary care hospital in Ethiopia. Methods: Through a retrospective cohort study, a total of 12,001 neonates born post-implementation of the NALS service (between June 2017 and March 2019) were compared to 2,066 neonates born before its implementation (between June 2016 and September 2016). Based on when the neonates were born, they were divided into six groups (groups A to F). All deliveries occurred in the inpatient Labor and Delivery Unit (LDU) at St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College. The number of neonatal deaths in the LDU, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission rate, and proportion of neonates with normal axillary temperature (36.5-37.5°C) within the first hour of life were evaluated. Data were analyzed using the χ² test, and p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Following the implementation of the NALS service, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders were conducted to evaluate their perception of the service; the interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded for thematic analysis. Results: There was a decrease in the proportion of neonates who died in the LDU (from 3.5 to 1%) during the immediate post-implementation period, followed by a sustained decrease over the study period (p < 0.001). The change in the NICU admission rate (from 22.8 to 21.2%) was insignificant (p = 0.6) during this initial period. However, this was followed by a significant sustained decrease (7.8% in group E and 9.8% in group F, p < 0.001). The proportion of newborns with normal axillary temperature improved from 46.2% during the initial post-implementation period to 87.8% (p < 0.01); this proportion further increased to 99.8%. The program was perceived positively by NALS team members, NICU care providers, and hospital administrators. Conclusion: In resource-limited settings, LDHF training for neonatal resuscitation improves the neonatal resuscitation skills and management of delivery room attendants.

Effect of Preterm Birth on the Risk of Adverse Perinatal and Neonatal Outcomes in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Despite remarkable progress in the reduction of under-five mortality, the rate of perinatal and neonatal mortality is still high especially in developing countries. The adverse outcome associated with preterm birth is one of the major public health challenges in Africa. However, there are limited and inconsistent studies conducted on the effect of preterm birth on adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes in Ethiopia. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the association between preterm birth and its adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes in Ethiopia. We systematically searched several electronic databases like PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Google Scholar, African Journals Online databases and Science Direct. All identified observational studies were included. The I1 statistics were used to assess the heterogeneity among the studies. A random-effects model was computed to estimate the pooled effect of preterm birth on adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes. Thirty-three studies with a total of 20 109 live births were included in the final meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis showed that preterm birth increased the odds of perinatal mortality by 10-folds [POR = 9.56 (95% CI: 5.47, 19.69)] and there was a 5.44-folds risk of stillbirth [Odds Ratio = 5.44 (95% CI: 3.57, 8.28)] among women who gave birth before 37 weeks of gestation. In addition, preterm birth was significantly associated with neonatal hypothermia [OR=3.54 (95% CI: 2.41, 5.21)], neonatal mortality [OR= 3.16 (95% CI: 1.57, 6.34). The sub-group analysis of this meta-analysis showed that there was an increased risk of neonatal sepsis [OR=2.33 (95% CI: 1.15, 4.71)] among preterm babies. Preterm births significantly increased the risk of adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes in Ethiopia. Therefore, scale-up strategies and improving the quality of maternal and child health care providers should be an area of intervention to reduce adverse outcomes associated with preterm birth. The Federal Ministry of Health and concerned bodies should work towards the prevention of preterm birth and its adverse outcomes.

Preterm Neonatal Mortality and Its Determinants at a Tertiary Hospital in Western Uganda: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background

Prematurity contributes greatly to the neonatal mortality burden in sub-Saharan Africa. This study evaluated the proportion of preterm neonatal death, medical conditions at admission, and determinants of mortality of preterm neonates in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a tertiary hospital in Western Uganda.

Materials and Methods

A prospective cohort study of 351 consecutively enrolled preterm neonates was conducted from March to June 2019. Interviewer-administered questionnaires and physical assessment of neonates were used to obtain socio-demographic and clinical data for mothers and their preterm neonates. Descriptive statistics for participants’ characteristics were generated, while bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were fitted so as to establish the determinants of mortality outcome. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

In-hospital neonatal mortality of 31.6% (95% CI: 26.9–36.7) was noted, with 65.8% of deaths occurring within 72 hours from admission. The most common medical conditions at admission were: hypothermia (67.2%), respiratory distress syndrome (43.0%), small for gestational age (15.7%), and perinatal asphyxia (14.5%). Under multivariate regression modelling, maternal age ≥35 years (AOR: 4.5; 95% CI: 1.35–15.31), no antenatal care (AOR: 4.7; 95% CI: 1.05–21.21), >4 ANC visits (AOR: 5.3; 95% CI: 1.88–15.21), neonatal resuscitation (AOR: 3.4; 95% CI: 1.66–6.82), outborn status (AOR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.20–4.50), singleton pregnancy (AOR: 3.7; 95% CI: 1.74–7.89), <28 weeks’ gestation (AOR: 12.0; 95% CI: 2.24–64.27), and male sex (AOR: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.04–3.74), respiratory distress syndrome (AOR: 2.6; 95% CI: 1.22–5.70), apnea (AOR: 6.2; 95.5% CI: 1.09–35.38), hypothermia (AOR: 2.3; 95% CI: 1.09–4.92), and small for gestational age (AOR: 4.7; 95% CI: 2.06–10.74) were significantly associated with mortality.

Conclusion and Recommendations

In-hospital mortality of preterm neonates was high. We identified various maternal and neonatal risk factors, indicating a need for stakeholders to enhance efforts towards prevention of preterm-associated complications and optimize facility-based continuum of care.