Neonatal jaundice in Ghanaian children: Assessing maternal knowledge, attitude, and perceptions
Date
2022
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
PLOS ONE
Abstract
Background
Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) is a major cause of preventable childhood mortality and long-term
impairment especially in countries with significant prevalence of the inherited condition, glucose-
6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) defect. In Ghana, routine screening of pregnant
women for G6PD defect is standard care. Prevention of poor health outcomes from NNJ is
contingent on population health literacy and early diagnosis. As part of a project to evaluate
a screening tool for NNJ, we assessed the knowledge, attitude, and perceptions of Ghanaian
mothers on NNJ at baseline.
Methods
Using a cross-sectional design, mothers attending antenatal and postnatal clinics at 3
selected health facilities in 2 geographical regions of Ghana were interviewed. Data on
mothers’ understanding, perceptions, beliefs, and actions towards NNJ were evaluated.
Chi-square test was used to determine the association between selected maternal characteristics
and knowledge, attitude, and perception to NNJ.
Results
Of the 504 mothers interviewed, 428(85.4%) had heard about NNJ, 346 (68.7%) said the
earliest signs are seen in the eyes, 384(76.2%) knew NNJ may be harmful and 467(92.7%)
recommended seeking healthcare for the jaundiced newborn. None of the women knew
about G6PD or their G6PD status following antenatal screening. Most did not know the
signs/symptoms of severe NNJ. Of the 15 mothers who had had a jaundiced neonate, cost
was the most perceived (8 out of 15) barrier to accessing health care. There were significant associations (p-value 0.05) between maternal age, educational level, and knowledge of
NNJ.
Conclusion
Despite the high level of awareness of NNJ, gaps still exit in the knowledge, attitudes and
perceptions of mothers concerning NNJ. Improving education of women about the causes,
symptoms/signs, and the role of G6PD in severe NNJ is recommended. Addressing barriers
to accessing healthcare for the jaundiced infant may enhance timely management of NNJ
and reduce the associated complications and mortality.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Neonatal jaundice (NNJ), glucose- 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD, Ghana