Clinical Report: Comprehensive Review Identifies Key Neonatal Death Risks
Overview
A global analysis of 64 systematic reviews highlights maternal health conditions, low birth weight, and limited antenatal care as significant factors linked to neonatal death. The strongest risk factors included preterm birth, low birth weight, maternal death, hypertensive and hemorrhagic disorders of pregnancy, and maternal obesity.
Background
Neonatal mortality remains a critical global health issue, with significant contributions from preventable factors. This review synthesizes existing evidence on risk factors associated with neonatal death.
Data Highlights
The review included 2,742 primary studies representing over 160 million participants, with 8% rated high quality and 11% moderate quality.
Key Findings
- 24 exposure–outcome associations were supported by probable evidence.
- Preterm birth and low birth weight were identified as the strongest risk factors for neonatal death.
- Maternal health conditions such as hypertensive and hemorrhagic disorders were linked to increased neonatal mortality.
- Antenatal care attendance and facility-based delivery were associated with reduced neonatal mortality.
- Timely initiation of breastfeeding, especially within the first hour, improved neonatal survival rates.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare providers should focus on preventing preterm birth and promoting timely breastfeeding initiation.
Conclusion
The review highlights the need for better-designed studies and improved data representation to guide public health strategies aimed at reducing neonatal deaths.
Related Resources & Content
- Bereket Kefale, MPH, eClinicalMedicine, 2025 -- Comprehensive Review Identifies Key Neonatal Death Risks
- JAMA Network Open — Factors Associated With Thromboembolism in Neonates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
- Pediatric Cardiology — Cardiogenic Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Neonates with Congenital Heart Defects: A Comprehensive Review and Meta-Analysis
- Open Forum Infectious Diseases — Assessing the Impact of Neonatal Invasive Candidiasis in Low- and Middle-Income Nations: A Comprehensive Review and Meta-Analysis
- Frontiers in Pediatrics — Multivariate Risk Assessment and Analysis of Brain Injury in High-Risk Infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
- Child mortality (under 5 years)
- Risk factors for neonatal mortality: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
- Kangaroo mother care: a clinical practice guide
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