Perinatal trends and birth outcomes of Syrian refugee and turkish women

Abstract

Aim: The impact of migration on health is far-reaching, making migrant populations particularly vulnerable, fueling health inequalities and resulting in serious implications for global health. The aim of our study to assess antenatal care, pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of Syrian refugee women in Turkiye. Material and Methods: Syrian and Turkish pregnants who delivered between 2013-2019 were recruited and categorized into groups according to maternal age at delivery. First trimester combined test, second trimester triple test, preterm delivery, maternal anemia; neonatal stillbirth, APGAR scores, birth weight and breastfeeding status were assessed. Results: 4992 Syrian and 6846 Turkish pregnants were included. Maternal anemia was higher in Turkish patients in 20-34 and ≥35 groups. First trimester combined test, APGAR scores and birth weights were lower in Syrian women. Preterm rates higher in Turkish patients in only 20-34 age group. Second-trimester triplet tests were only higher in Turkish women in ≥35 age group. Low birth weight was higher in younger Syrian patients. Satisfying breastfeeding results were found in Syrian women. Conclusion: Our study stated that Syrian women are at risk of low birth weight in adolescent and 20-34 age groups and low rates in first trimester combined test in all age groups. However decreased risk of pregnancy complications such as maternal anemia, preterm delivery, cesarean delivery and satisfying breastfeeding results were found in Syrian patients.