Study on Prevalence and Etiology of Early Neonatal Deaths in Jasin district, Melaka from 2014-2017

Abstract

Background: Neonatal mortality rate is in the range of 3.2- 4.2 since 2013 in Melaka state but records of Jasin district which is a part of this state, had shown higher early neonatal deaths. Hence, this study was conducted to find out prevalence of early neonatal deaths and its causes from 2014-17. Material and methods: This cross-sectional study was done in Jasin district using universal sampling method from 1st January 2018 to 30th June 2018. Initially records of all perinatal deaths from 2014-17 were checked and proforma was filled in and later early neonatal deaths were segregated from the main excel sheet and analyzed for prevalence and etiology. Results: We found prevalence of early neonatal mortality rate of 5.56/1000. Forty-one percent deaths occurred in 24 hours of life followed by 22% on day 2. Preterm birth accounted for ¾ of the total deaths and 63.44% deaths seen in low birth weight (<2500grams). Fifty-one of all deaths had congenital malformation, 17.8% had infection, 15.5 % each died due to asphyxia and immaturity. Conclusion: Prematurity, low birth weight and congenital malformation are the main causes during 0-6 days of life. Hence provision of good obstetric care, educating pregnant women on nutritious diet, vaccination and follow up is necessary. Apart from this there is a need to have upgradation of neonatal resuscitation services.