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[Risk factors for neonatal death in Recife: a case-control study]
S W Sarinho1, D A Filho, G A Silva
1Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil.
Jornal De Pediatria
|December 4, 2003
Summary
Neonatal mortality in Recife is primarily linked to low birth weight and low Apgar scores. These factors significantly increase the risk of infant death, highlighting critical areas for intervention and surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Neonatal Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Neonatal mortality constitutes the leading cause of infant mortality in Recife.
- Identifying key risk factors is crucial for developing targeted public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the primary risk factors associated with neonatal death in Recife during 1995.
- To inform public health strategies aimed at reducing infant mortality.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study design was employed, linking mortality and live birth databases from 1995.
- Data from 456 neonatal death cases and 2,280 controls were analyzed.
- Logistic regression was used to identify and adjust for confounding factors.
Main Results:
- Low birth weight (< 2,500g) was a significant risk factor, with a 46-fold increased risk of death.
- Major risk factors identified by logistic regression included: birth weight < 1,500g (OR=49.6), 5-minute Apgar score < 7 (OR=44.1), birth weight 1,500-2,500g (OR=8.2), and gestational age < 37 weeks (OR=4.3).
- Nearly 80% of cases presented with low birth weight.
Conclusions:
- Birth weight, gestational age, and Apgar score are critical factors for neonatal death surveillance.
- These variables are essential for identifying high-risk neonates and implementing timely interventions.