Prevalence and Risk Factors for Perinatal Asphyxia as Seen at a Specialist Hospital in Gusau, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Perinatal asphyxia is a global neonatal problem which significantly contributes to both morbidity and mortality. It is the fifth largest cause of under-five mortality. This study was aimed to determine the prevalence, risk factors and outcome of perinatal asphyxia in newborns seen in the Special Care Baby Unit. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of newborns managed for perinatal asphyxia over a 1-year period. All inborn babies with Apgar scores <6 at 5 min and out born babies with no Apgar score but with features of asphyxia were studied. Case files of the patients were retrieved and relevant information was obtained. Results: Of the 223 neonates admitted during the study period, 67 (30.1%) newborns had perinatal asphyxia from our record; but only 47 (70.1%) case files with complete data were retrieved, giving a prevalence of 21.1%. Twenty five (53.2%) of the mothers were primiparous, 31 (66.0%) had no antenatal care and 25 (53.2%) presented with prolonged obstructed labor. Twenty-eight (59.6%) of the newborns were females; 41 (87.2%) were term, 27 (57.4%) of normal birth weight, 42 (89.4%) delivered in the hospital and mostly through an emergency caesarean section. Thirty (63.9%) of the newborns were discharged; while 12 newborns died, giving a case fatality rate of 25.5%. Conclusion: Perinatal asphyxia is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Gusau. Health education of pregnant mothers on antenatal care for early detection of high-risk pregnancy is highly recommended in order to reduce the high incidence of this preventable condition.