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A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Urban perinatal health inequalities
Jashvant Poeran1, Semiha Denktas, Erwin Birnie
1Erasmus University Rotterdam, Institute of Health Policy & Management, PO Box 1738, Rotterdam 3000 DR, The Netherlands. v.j.j.poeran@erasmusmc.nl
Summary
Perinatal mortality rates are significantly higher in deprived neighborhoods of Rotterdam, indicating substantial health inequalities. These disparities highlight the urgent need to address urban health challenges in the Western world.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Urban Health
Background:
- Large urban areas often exhibit higher perinatal mortality rates.
- Understanding neighborhood-level variations is crucial for public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze perinatal outcomes at a neighborhood level in Rotterdam.
- To identify and quantify perinatal health inequalities within the city.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of perinatal outcomes for 50,000 single pregnancies between 2000-2006.
- Determination of perinatal mortality and morbidity prevalences across Rotterdam's neighborhoods.
Main Results:
- Significant perinatal health inequalities were found between neighborhoods.
- Perinatal mortality rates reached as high as 37 per 1000 births in certain areas.
- Deprived neighborhoods showed the highest risks for adverse perinatal outcomes.
Conclusions:
- High levels of perinatal health inequalities exist in Rotterdam, previously undescribed in the Western world.
- A combination of medical, socioeconomic, and urban risk factors likely contributes to these disparities.
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