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Cesarean section among immigrants in Norway
S Vangen1, C Stoltenberg, A Skrondal
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The National Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
Acta Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica
|August 10, 2000
Summary
Cesarean section rates varied significantly among immigrant groups in Norway. Factors like feto-pelvic disproportion and prolonged labor influenced these rates, but unknown elements also played a role.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Sociology of Health
Background:
- Cesarean section (CS) rates exhibit considerable variation across diverse populations.
- Understanding ethnic and immigrant disparities in CS is crucial for equitable healthcare.
Observation:
- A population-based study in Norway analyzed 553,491 births (1986-1995), including 17,891 immigrant births.
- CS prevalences ranged from 10.1% (Vietnam) to 25.8% (Philippines), with higher rates in groups from Sri Lanka/India, Somalia/Eritrea/Ethiopia, and Chile/Brazil compared to ethnic Norwegians (12.4%).
Findings:
- Feto-pelvic disproportion, fetal distress, and prolonged labor were key diagnoses associated with higher CS rates.
- The contribution of these diagnoses varied by ethnic group, suggesting complex underlying factors.
- Unknown factors significantly influenced CS rates, particularly in women from Somalia/Eritrea/Ethiopia and Chile/Brazil.
Implications:
- Substantial ethnic variations in CS use necessitate further investigation into contributing factors.
- Potential confounding factors include maternal request and delivery management challenges.
- Research is needed to elucidate the drivers of observed CS rate disparities among ethnic groups in Norway.