Prevalence and risk factors associated with neonatal Jaundice among newborns admitted at a selected district Hospital of Rwanda.

Abstract

Background Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common reasons for admission of neonates in the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Despite global efforts, low- and middle-income countries continue to experience serious problems regarding neonatal outcomes due to neonatal jaundice. Available evidence has shown continuously the burden of neonatal jaundice in several countries including Rwanda where the prevalence and risk factors associated with neonatal jaundice need to be assessed in dept. Purpose of study: The purpose of the study is to assess the prevalence of and risk factors associated with neonatal jaundice among newborns admitted at a selected district hospital of Rwanda. Methodology: A quantitative approach has been used with a retrospective cross-sectional design for 210 files. A stratified proportional sampling was used to select files. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used for the data analysis. Results: A total of 210 newborns were included in this study. Of this number, 93 (44.3%) newborns were diagnosed with neonatal jaundice .Associated risk factors were ABO and other blood group incompatibility( p= 0.001*) ,infections (p =0.017*),Caesarean section as method of delivering (p 0.000*), the birth weight of 2501-3000g (52.4%) ,the age of more than 7 days (P= 0.002*),the maternal age of 35 and more(51.5%) , the female gender and prematurity (P= 0.017*). Conclusion: The prevalence of neonatal jaundice was high. 44.3% of newborns developed neonatal jaundice. ABO and other blood group incompatibilities, infections, prematurity gestation age of the baby and the C/Section as a method of delivering were predominant associated risk factors with neonatal jaundice. There is a need of conducting further researches on prevalence and risk factors associated with neonatal jaundice in other districts of Rwanda.