Abstract:

Background: Of the estimated 130 million babies born each year globally, approximately 15 million are born preterm. Prematurity is a major cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity as well as significant contributor to long term adverse health outcomes. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and risk factors associated with mortality among premature neonates at Bugando Medical Center in Mwanza Tanzania.

Methodology: This was a cross section prospective study conducted at neonatal ward of Bugando Medical Centre. Premature babies were serially enrolled in the study until the sample size was reached. Questionnaire was used to document the social demographic information an outcomes of babies at discharge.

Results: The prevalence of mortality among the premature neonates within 28 days was 56.8 %( 63/111), 34(30.6%) neonates had respiratory distress syndrome, 21(18.9%) had episodes of hypothermia, 13 (11.7%) with birth asphyxia, 7(6.3%) had infection and 1(0.9%) had necrotizing enterocolitis. Mortality was high among neonates born with low birth weight (1000-1500gm) [OR 14.51; 95% CI 3.97-53.02; p=0.000] Respiratory distress syndrome [OR 14.15; 95% CI; 2.47-81.14; P=0.003] and those delivered vaginally [OR 11.43; 95% CI; 1.98-66.04; P=0.006].

Conclusion: Mode of delivery, low birth weight, respiratory distress syndrome and were associated with increased mortality in premature neonates admitted at Bugando Medical Center.