Pattern of Preterm Admissions and Associated Outcomes in a Faith Based Secondary Health Facility in Nigeria.

Abstract

Background
Preterm birth (<37 weeks gestation) is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa account for the majority of cases, and Nigeria contributes significantly to the global burden. Preterm infants face severe complications, especially in resource limited settings. Faith-based Hospitals play important roles in maternal and newborn care yet published data from these facilities remain sparse. Objectives The study aims to describe the pattern and outcomes of preterm admissions in a faith-based secondary hospital in South-West Nigeria.

Subjects and methods
A six-month retrospective study was conducted at a faith-based hospital in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Preterm infants (<37 weeks, <2000 g) with complete records were included. Data on maternal, delivery, and neonatal characteristics, comorbidities, and outcomes were obtained from the unit records. Analysis was performed using SPSS, with logistic regression used to identify predictors of mortality (p < 0.05).

Results
Of the 425 admissions, 109 (25.6%) were preterm. Most (89%) were admitted within 72 hours, with a median age of 3 hours. The majority were singletons (75.2%), caesarean deliveries (52.3%), and born to mothers <35 years (72.5%). Common diagnoses included uncomplicated prematurity (39.4%), sepsis, and jaundice. The discharge rate was 70.6%, while mortality was 15.6%. Delayed admission (p = 0.03), outborn status (p < 0.01), and lower gestational age were significant predictors of mortality. Respiratory support was protective (OR = 0.097, p < 0.001)

CONCLUSIONS
Delayed care and outborn status heightened preterm mortality. Strengthening recognition of risk factors for prematurity and access to quality neonatal services is essential in low-resource settings.