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Islamic festivals and low birthweight infants.
A A Opaneye1, D D Villegas, A A Azeim
1Labour and Delivery Ward, King Khalid Hospital, Al-Kharj, Saudi-Arabia.
Journal of the Royal Society of Health
|June 1, 1990
Summary
Low birthweight (LBW) deliveries significantly increased during Saudi Arabia
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neonatal Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Low birthweight (LBW) is a critical indicator of neonatal health.
- Saudi Arabia faces challenges in managing LBW rates.
- Seasonal variations in birth outcomes require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence of LBW in Saudi Arabia.
- To investigate potential correlations between LBW and festival months.
- To assess perinatal mortality rates for LBW infants.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 5280 deliveries at King Khalid Hospital (March 1985-January 1987).
- Comparison of LBW rates during festival (Ramadan, Hajj) versus non-festival months.
- Calculation of perinatal mortality rates and statistical significance (p-value, Odds Ratio).
Main Results:
- 6.53% (345) of infants were LBW (<2500g).
- A statistically significant increase (p<0.01, OR=1.42) in LBW deliveries occurred during Ramadan and Hajj.
- Perinatal mortality for LBW infants was 176.8/1000, significantly higher than the overall rate (25.82/1000).
- Adolescent primiparae contributed significantly to LBW deliveries.
Conclusions:
- Festival months in Saudi Arabia are associated with a significant rise in LBW deliveries.
- LBW infants face substantially higher perinatal mortality risks.
- Enhanced maternal care during festivals and improved neonatal provisions are crucial.