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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.
Insights
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.
Abstract:
During the period between Rajab 1405 and Jamad Thani 1407 (March 1985-January 1987) a total of 5280 babies were delivered at King Khalid Hospital, Al-Kharj, Saudi-Arabia. Out of these children, 345 i.e. 6.53% weighed less than 2500g. Seventy-three, i.e. 21% of the low birthweight (LBW) babies were born during the festival months of Ramadan and Hajj. When compared with the non-festival months, the number was statistically significant p less than 0.01; and Odds Ratio of 1.42. The perinatal mortality rate for the LBW infants was 176.8 per thousand compared with 25.82 for all deliveries during the same period of time. As in a previous report adolescent primiparae made a large contribution to the total number of LBW deliveries. Therefore there is a need for more vigilance in the care of pregnant patients and, more provisions for the care of LBW infants during the festival months.