Societal awareness on neonatal hyperbilirubinemia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Zubaida L Farouk1, Fatima Usman1, Baba Maiyaki Musa2

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Bayero University, Kano Nigeria.

Seminars in Perinatology
|December 28, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Societal awareness of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, a condition requiring early recognition to prevent brain damage, is estimated at 67%. Targeted interventions are needed to improve public knowledge, especially in low-resource settings.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Health
  • Public Health
  • Medical Research

Background:

  • Early recognition of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is crucial to prevent bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity and long-term complications.
  • High rates of home delivery and early discharge in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) necessitate robust community surveillance for neonatal jaundice.
  • Limited societal awareness poses a significant challenge to timely detection and management of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To estimate the level of societal awareness regarding neonatal hyperbilirubinemia through a comprehensive literature review.
  • To identify factors influencing public knowledge and awareness of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and its associated risks.
  • To highlight the need for improved public health initiatives to enhance understanding of neonatal jaundice.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic literature review was conducted, searching multiple databases and grey literature for relevant studies.
  • A total of 211 citations were retrieved, with 52 selected articles undergoing further detailed review and data extraction.
  • Statistical analysis was performed using Stata software to pool estimates and assess determinants of awareness, including publication bias analysis.

Main Results:

  • The pooled estimate indicated that 67% (95% CI: 60-74) of society demonstrated awareness of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
  • Publication bias was detected, suggesting potential overestimation of awareness in some studies.
  • Studies employing graded knowledge assessment reported lower awareness estimates. Hospital location was a significant determinant of awareness regarding complications.

Conclusions:

  • Societal awareness of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is moderate but insufficient, necessitating targeted interventions.
  • There is a significant need to improve public knowledge and understanding of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, particularly in LMICs.
  • Future strategies should focus on community-based education and accessible healthcare information to mitigate risks associated with neonatal jaundice.

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