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Ectopic pregnancy in Greenland. An epidemiological study
H M Johnsen1, F Becker-Christensen
1Qeqertarsuaq/Godhavn District Hospital, Greenland.
Arctic Medical Research
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Ectopic pregnancy (EP) rates in Greenland between 1980-1984 were found to be exceptionally high, exceeding Scandinavian levels. Researchers noted a potential link between EP incidence and Neisseria infections.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Reproductive Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Ectopic pregnancy (EP) poses significant health risks.
- Understanding regional EP incidence is crucial for public health strategies.
- Greenlandic health data from the early 1980s provides a unique epidemiological context.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the rate and incidence of ectopic pregnancy (EP) in Greenland.
- To compare Greenlandic EP rates with Scandinavian data from the same period.
- To explore potential correlations between EP and other infectious diseases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective epidemiological investigation.
- Analysis of data from 7 of Greenland's 16 medical districts (48% of the population) from 1980-1984.
- Calculation of EP rates and statistical correlation analysis.
Main Results:
- A total of 4481 pregnancies were analyzed, with 105 cases of ectopic pregnancy (EP).
- The calculated EP rate was 2.34, significantly higher than contemporary Scandinavian rates.
- An estimated 44 cases of EP occurred annually in Greenland, with fluctuations observed.
- A positive correlation was found between EP cases and Neisseria infections, though only significant at the 10% level.
Conclusions:
- Greenland experienced notably high ectopic pregnancy (EP) rates during 1980-1984.
- The findings suggest a potential association between Neisseria infections and EP incidence in Greenland.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific factors contributing to high EP rates and the observed correlation.