Neonatal Jaundice: A Survey of Perinatal Correlates among Mothers of Infants Attending Immunization Clinic in Surulere Local Government Area

Abstract

Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) is a major public health problem worldwide and is present in 50-60% of full term and 80% of preterm newborns. It contributes to the high neonatal morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and Latin America. Various studies in Lagos have reported higher rates compared to other parts of Nigeria and the developing world. This study set out to determine the perinatal correlates of neonatal jaundice among mothers of infants attending immunization clinics in Surulere local government area (LGA) of Lagos State. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study among mothers attending selected immunization clinics in Surulere local government area. Multistage sampling was used to select four immunization clinics from three wards in the LGA. Using astructured interviewer-administered questionnaire, data were obtained from 394 mothers on their socio-demographic characteristics, ANC and birth history, history of neonatal jaundice and how it was managed. Data obtained was analyzed using IBMSPSS and presented as frequencies and percentages Associations were tested statistically using Chisquare at a significance level of p<0.05. The mean age of mothers was 29.3+5 years. Majority (86.3%)of mothers received antenatal care and delivered in hospitals, 86.3% and 83.3% respectively. Almost half (47.0%) had booked in the first trimester, 36.5% reported febrile illness during pregnancy. Post-birth, 92 mothers (23.4%) were discharged within 6 hours of delivery and 52.2% of these mothers were discharged within 1 hour of delivery. Less than a third (28.7%) initiated breastfeeding within 1 hour, 37.3% within 6 hours and 24.4% did not initiate breastfeeding for >12 hours. Seventy-nine mothers (20.1%) noticed NNJ; 31.6% in <24 hours, 39.2% in 24-72 hours and 29.1% after 72 hours. Almost all mothers (97.7%) were still breastfeeding and 63.4% reported exclusively breastfeeding their babies. History of NNJ in previous baby and illness during pregnancy were significantly associated with NNJ. The proportion of babies in whom the mothers reported neonatal jaundice was19.5%. NNJ was significantly associated with illness during pregnancy and previous history of NNJ. The authors recommend strengthening the implementation of postnatal examination of newborns prior to discharge and early return for re-examination of those newborns discharged earlier than 72 hours of birth.

Key words: Neonatal jaundice, perinatal correlates, antenatal care practices, delivery practices and Infant feeding