Factors Influencing Mortality among Preterm Neonates at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background: Preterm delivery which is delivery occurring less than 37 completed weeks of gestation is a major cause of neonatal mortality and childhood morbidity worldwide. Several factors influence the survival rate of premature babies making them vulnerable and prone to neonatal mortality. However, there is limited evidence on factors that contribute to mortality among preterm neonates in Ghana. The objective of this study was to determine factors influencing mortality among preterm neonates in the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH) of Ghana. Methods: A retrospective descriptive design was employed and all available records of preterm babies delivered from January, 1st to December, 31st 2017, were reviewed and included in the study. A structured check list was designed and used to collect data on the variables of the study. Data collected were analyzed using STATA version 15. Descriptive analysis was done using simple frequencies and percentages while test of association and strength of association were done using Chi-square test and bivariate and multiple regression analysis. Results: Preterm neonatal mortality was high (27.5%) among preterm deliveries and constituted 37.8% of neonatal mortality. The birth weight and gestational age of preterm babies could strongly predict preterm neonatal mortality and preterm babies delivered less than 28 weeks of gestational age were more likely to die compared with babies born at gestational age of above 28 weeks (p< 0.001). A preterm baby with a birth weight of less than 1.5kg had significantly higher chance of dying compared with those who weighed 1.5kg or more (p<0.001). Conclusion: The Quality of preterm and neonatal care is key to enhance the survival chances of preterm babies and there is the need for continuous training of healthcare professionals in the care of the newborn, particularly preterm babies.