Exploring the patterns and characteristics of death in northeastern Nigeria: A study of University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital mortality cases

Abstract

Background: Northeastern Nigeria has been marked by conflicts, epidemics, and natural disasters, resulting in high mortality rates.  Understanding the patterns and characteristics of death in this region is crucial for developing effective public health policies.

Aim: This  study aimed to explore the patterns and characteristics of death in Northeastern Nigeria using mortality data from the University of  Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

Methods: Mortality data from January 2019 to December 2020 were analyzed (including age, sex, time of  death, type of death, clinical conditions, month of death, and address of the deceased).

Results: Out of 713 recorded deaths, 79.7% were  hospital deaths, and 20.3% were brought-in-dead cases. Male deaths slightly outnumbered female deaths, with a ratio of 1.2:1. The  highest frequency of hospital deaths occurred in the age group of 30-39 years, while the age groups 50-59 and 60-69 had the highest  frequency of brought-in-dead cases. Chronic kidney disease was the most frequent clinical condition associated with hospital deaths,  while cardiopulmonary arrest was the most common condition for brought-in-dead cases. Hospital deaths were more common in April,  and brought-in-dead cases had a higher frequency in December. Most deaths occurred within the metropolis, with a smaller proportion  from outside the metropolis.

Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the patterns and characteristics of death in  Northeastern Nigeria, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to reduce mortality rates in the region. Understanding these  patterns and characteristics is essential for developing effective public health policies and interventions.