AI Article Synopsis
- A high twinning rate in Africa contributes to increased infant mortality, with twins accounting for significant percentages of neonatal (11.8%) and post-neonatal (7.8%) deaths in The Gambia.
- Data from the Basse Health and Demographic Surveillance System indicated that twins have a markedly higher mortality rate compared to singletons, with adjusted odds ratios showing increased risk during both neonatal (4.33 times) and post-neonatal (2.61 times) periods.
- Factors such as being female, being born in the dry season, and lack of access to clean water are associated with higher post-neonatal mortality among twins, highlighting the need for targeted preventative measures.
Article Abstract
Background: A high twinning rate and an increased risk of mortality among twins contribute to the high burden of infant mortality in Africa. This study examined the contribution of twins to neonatal and post-neonatal mortality in The Gambia, and evaluated factors that contribute to the excess mortality among twins.
Methods: We analysed data from the Basse Health and Demographic Surveillance System (BHDSS) collected from January 2009 to December 2013. Demographic and epidemiological variables were assessed for their association with mortality in different age groups.
Results: We included 32,436 singletons and 1083 twins in the analysis (twining rate 16.7/1000 deliveries). Twins represented 11.8 % of all neonatal deaths and 7.8 % of post-neonatal deaths. Mortality among twins was higher than in singletons [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 4.33 (95 % CI: 3.09, 6.06) in the neonatal period and 2.61 (95 % CI: 1.85, 3.68) in the post-neonatal period]. Post-neonatal mortality among twins increased in girls (P for interaction = 0.064), being born during the dry season (P for interaction = 0.030) and lacking access to clean water (P for interaction = 0.042).
Conclusion: Mortality among twins makes a significant contribution to the high burden of neonatal and post-neonatal mortality in The Gambia and preventive interventions targeting twins should be prioritized.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
|---|---|
| http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4791939 | PMC |
| http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12887-016-0573-2 | DOI Listing |
Publication Analysis
Top Keywords
Similar Publications
Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?
Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!