Title : Prevalence and determinants of neonatal jaundice among neonates receiving care at the Zongo health centre in Berekum, Ghana
Abstract:
Neonatal jaundice is a common condition affecting newborns globally, including in Ghana, and is linked to various maternal and neonatal factors. This study assessed the prevalence and determinants of neonatal jaundice at the Zongo Health Centre in Berekum, Ghana. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to December 2024, involving 310 neonates. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and hospital records, focusing on maternal age, delivery type, neonatal health, and breastfeeding practices. Logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with neonatal jaundice. The overall prevalence of neonatal jaundice was 12.8% (40/310). Significant risk factors included prematurity (aOR = 5.84; 95% CI: 2.20–15.51), spontaneous vaginal delivery (aOR = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.03–3.75), advanced maternal age (41–45 years) (aOR = 2.91; 95% CI: 1.16–7.27), second gravidity (aOR = 2.65; 95% CI: 1.45–4.83), and poor breastfeeding practices (aOR = 2.94; 95% CI: 1.38–6.28). Additional neonatal risk factors included septicemia (aOR = 4.88), G6PD deficiency (aOR = 3.21), low birth weight (aOR = 1.67), respiratory distress syndrome (aOR = 1.98), and postpartum haemorrhage in mothers (aOR = 1.94), all of which were statistically significant. Neonatal jaundice prevalence at the Zongo Health Centre was moderate. Multiple maternal and neonatal factors contributed to its occurrence. Targeted interventions addressing neonatal infections, prematurity, and breastfeeding challenges are essential to reduce the burden and improve outcomes in primary healthcare settings.
