The Occurrence and Correlating Elements of Newborn Mortality in Jinja District, Uganda

Abstract

In Uganda, the neonatal mortality rate remains high, standing at 27 deaths per 1000 live births. However, there's a lack of comprehensive data concerning the prevalence and factors associated with neonatal mortality in Jinja district, Uganda. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing the prevalence and identifying associated risk factors for neonatal mortality in the area. Using a pretested survey questionnaire, data from the electronic database of Jinja district on maternal and newborn interventions were collected, focusing on 245 women who had given birth within the past year, irrespective of birth outcomes. The collected data underwent analysis using SPSS version 25, employing chi-squared analysis at a significance level of p=0.05 to discern factors linked with neonatal mortality. The study revealed a neonatal mortality rate of 12.2%. Factors contributing to increased neonatal mortality included mothers with an education level below secondary, residing in rural areas, male infants, neonates aged 2-7 days, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Notably, the neonatal mortality rate observed in this study was lower than the national average. The findings suggest that employing community-based initiatives to educate and raise awareness within households about appropriate maternal and newborn care practices could significantly contribute to reducing neonatal mortality rates. Keywords: Neonatal mortality, Newborn, Preterm birth, Mothers