Neonatal Complications and Mortality Risk between Preterm and Term Babies at Meta Maternity Hospital, Tanzania

Abstract

Neonatal mortality remains a public health concern globally and in low
resource settings, with preterm birth significantly contributing to 
adverse outcomes. The aim of this study was to compare the risk of 
common adverse health outcomes between preterm and term neonates 
and to examine specific complications associated with neonatal 
mortality risk at Meta Maternity Hospital in Tanzania. 452 newborns 
admitted to the neonatal unit were involved, grouped as preterm and 
term. Health outcomes were tracked from the time of birth to the time 
of release from the hospital, death, or end of the neonatal period. 
Appropriate statistical analyses were conducted, including non
parametric tests, chi-square, logistic regression, and correlation analysis, 
with significance set at p < 0.05. Preterm neonates had significantly 
lower birth weight (< 2.5 kg) and Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes 
compared to term neonates (p < 0.001). They had 17.49- and 12.14
times greater odds of developing apnoea and respiratory distress 
syndrome, respectively, and were 12.82 times more likely to die. 
Apnoea (OR = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.31-0.95) and respiratory distress 
syndrome (OR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.05-0.24) were the strongest predictors 
of mortality (p < 0.05). While jaundice was highly prevalent among both 
groups, it was not significantly associated with mortality, unlike other 
complications. Preterm birth significantly increases the risk of adverse 
neonatal outcomes and mortality. To improve neonatal survival at Meta 
Maternity Hospital, timely respiratory support and continuous 
monitoring of neonates with respiratory distress syndrome and apnoea 
should be prioritised. Routine screening and early treatment of jaundice 
should also be ensured for all newborns.