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Birth asphyxia--analysis of 235 cases
JPMA. the Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association
|March 12, 2003
Summary
Birth asphyxia is a significant concern, even in babies born at term with good weight. This study highlights potential issues with perinatal services in maternity facilities, suggesting a need for improved standards and equipment.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal care
- Perinatal health
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Birth asphyxia remains a critical issue in neonatal health.
- Identifying risk factors is crucial for prevention and intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate risk factors associated with birth asphyxia in newborns admitted to a tertiary care unit.
- To analyze the characteristics of newborns suffering from birth asphyxia.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 235 newborn records admitted with birth asphyxia.
- Data collected from January to August 2001 at the National Institute of Child Health, Karachi.
- Variables included antenatal care, gestational age, place and mode of delivery, birth weight, and arrival time.
Main Results:
- Most mothers received antenatal care (71%) and babies were born at term (88%).
- A majority of deliveries occurred in maternity homes or hospitals (75.3%).
- 57% of newborns weighed over 2.5 kg, and 22.5% arrived within 6 hours of birth.
Conclusions:
- High incidence of birth asphyxia in well-nourished, term infants suggests inadequate perinatal services.
- Trained personnel and neonatal resuscitation equipment are recommended for all maternity facilities.