Trend, and multivariate decomposition of perinatal mortality in Ethiopia using further analysis of EDHS 2005–2016

Abstract

BackgroundPerinatal mortality is a global health problem, especially in Ethiopia, which has the highest perinatal mortality rate. Studies about perinatal mortality were conducted in Ethiopia, but which factors specifically contribute to the change in perinatal mortality across time is unknown.ObjectivesTo assess the trend and multivariate decomposition of perinatal mortality in Ethiopia using EDHS 2005–2016.MethodsA community-based, cross-sectional study design was used. EDHS 2005–2016 data was used, and weighting has been applied to adjust the difference in the probability of selection. Logit-based multivariate decomposition analysis was used using STATA version 14.1. The best model was selected using the lowest AIC value, and variables were selected with a p-value less than 0.05 at 95% CI.ResultThe trend of perinatal mortality in Ethiopia decreased from 37 per 1000 births in 2005 to 33 per 1000 births in 2016. About 83.3% of the decrease in perinatal mortality in the survey was attributed to the difference in the endowment (composition) of the women. Among the differences in the endowment, the difference in the composition of ANC visits, taking the TT vaccine, urban residence, occupation, secondary education, and birth attendant significantly decreased perinatal mortality in the last 10 years. Among the differences in coefficients, skilled birth attendants significantly decreased perinatal mortality.Conclusion and recommendationThe perinatal mortality rate in Ethiopia has declined over time. Variables like ANC visits, taking the TT vaccine, urban residence, occupation, secondary education, and skilled birth attendants reduce perinatal mortality. To reduce perinatal mortality more, scaling up maternal and newborn health services has a critical role.