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The costs of multiple pregnancy
L G Keith1, E Papiernik, B Luke
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Illinois.
Summary
Multiple births increased significantly in the US from 1977-1987, affecting various maternal groups. This trend impacts projected neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) bed needs and associated costs.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Perinatal Epidemiology
- Public Health Statistics
Background:
- The period between 1977 and 1987 witnessed a notable rise in multiple births within the United States.
- Understanding demographic shifts in maternal age and ethnicity is crucial for analyzing this trend.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the increase in multiple births in the US from 1977 to 1987.
- To identify the contributions of different maternal ethnic and age groups to this increase.
- To estimate future needs for neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) beds and costs associated with handicaps.
Main Methods:
- Review of US vital statistics data from 1977 to 1987.
- Analysis of birthweight distributions in multiple gestations.
- Estimation of NICU bed requirements and handicap costs.
Main Results:
- Significant increase in multiple births observed during the specified decade.
- Identification of specific maternal demographic groups contributing to the rising trend.
- Projections indicate increased demand for NICU services and associated healthcare expenditures.
Conclusions:
- The rise in multiple births presents challenges for neonatal care infrastructure and costs.
- Further research into modifying low birthweight distributions in multiple pregnancies is warranted.
- Public health strategies may be needed to address the implications of increased multiple births.