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Hildingsson I, Berterö C, Hultcrantz M, Kärrman Fredriksson M, Peira N, Silverstein RA, Persson M, Sveen J. Support interventions to reduce psychological distress in families experiencing stillbirth in high income countries: A systematic review. Women Birth 2024; 37:296-302. [PMID: 38242808 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2024.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research indicates disparities in the care of bereaved parents and siblings following a stillbirth in the family. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effects of interventions aimed at reducing psychological distress among parents or siblings in high-income countries after experiencing a stillbirth. METHODS The databases CINAHL, Medline, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were searched in August 2022. RESULTS Four intervention studies from the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), Finland, and Australia, met the inclusion criteria. The interventions comprised a perinatal grief support team; a perinatal counselling service; a grief support program; and a support package including contacts with peer supporters and health care staff. No studies of interventions for siblings were found. The results could not be synthesised due to disparities in interventions and outcome measures. The risk of bias was assessed as high in all four studies and the certainty for all outcomes was rated as very low. CONCLUSION More controlled trials with rigorous methods are needed to evaluate the effect of bereavement support interventions in parents and siblings after stillbirth. Future studies should include a core outcome set to make them more comparable. Most of the studies in this review were assessed to have an overall high risk of bias, mainly due to problems with missing outcome data; thus, future studies could specifically target this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingegerd Hildingsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Nursing, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Carina Berterö
- Division of Nursing Sciences and Reproductive Health, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Monica Hultcrantz
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maja Kärrman Fredriksson
- Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services (SBU), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nathalie Peira
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rebecca A Silverstein
- Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services (SBU), Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Josefin Sveen
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Centre for Crisis Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Farrar DS, Pell LG, Muhammad Y, Khan SH, Tanner Z, Bassani DG, Ahmed I, Karim M, Madhani F, Paracha S, Khan MA, Soofi SB, Taljaard M, Spitzer RF, Abu Fadaleh SM, Bhutta ZA, Morris SK. Association of maternal, obstetric, fetal, and neonatal mortality outcomes with Lady Health Worker coverage from a cross-sectional survey of >10,000 households in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002693. [PMID: 38412169 PMCID: PMC10898742 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Pakistan has among the highest rates of maternal, perinatal, and neonatal mortality globally. Many of these deaths are potentially preventable with low-cost, scalable interventions delivered through community-based health worker programs to the most remote communities. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 10,264 households during the baseline phase of a cluster randomized controlled trial (cRCT) in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan from June-August 2021. The survey was conducted through a stratified, two-stage sampling design with the objective of estimating the neonatal mortality rate (NMR) within the study catchment area, and informing implementation of the cRCT. Study outcomes were self-reported and included neonatal death, stillbirth, health facility delivery, maternal death, postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), and Lady Health Worker (LHW) coverage. Summary statistics (proportions and rates) were weighted according to the sampling design, and mixed-effects Poisson regression was conducted to explore the relationship between LHW coverage and maternal/newborn outcomes. We identified 7,600 women who gave birth in the past five years, among whom 13% reported experiencing PPH. The maternal mortality ratio was 225 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births (95% confidence interval [CI] 137-369). Among 12,376 total births, the stillbirth rate was 41.4 per 1,000 births (95% CI 36.8-46.7) and the perinatal mortality rate was 53.0 per 1,000 births (95% CI 47.6-59.0). Among 11,863 live births, NMR was 16.2 per 1,000 live births (95% CI 13.6-19.3) and 65% were delivered at a health facility. LHW home visits were associated with declines in PPH (risk ratio [RR] 0.89 per each additional visit, 95% CI 0.83-0.96) and late neonatal mortality (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.67-0.97). Intracluster correlation coefficients were also estimated to inform the planning of future trials. The high rates of maternal, perinatal, and neonatal death in Gilgit-Baltistan continue to fall behind targets of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S Farrar
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa G Pell
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yasin Muhammad
- Gilgit Regional Office, Aga Khan Health Service-Pakistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
| | - Sher Hafiz Khan
- Gilgit Regional Office, Aga Khan Health Service-Pakistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
| | - Zachary Tanner
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Diego G Bassani
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Imran Ahmed
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Karim
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Falak Madhani
- Aga Khan Health Service-Pakistan, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
- Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Shariq Paracha
- Aga Khan Health Service-Pakistan, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Masood Ali Khan
- Gilgit Regional Office, Aga Khan Health Service-Pakistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
| | - Sajid B Soofi
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Monica Taljaard
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rachel F Spitzer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Section of Gynecology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah M Abu Fadaleh
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
- Institute for Global Health & Development, The Aga Khan University, South-Central Asia & East Africa, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Shaun K Morris
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
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Mensah Abrampah NA, Okwaraji YB, Oteng KF, Asiedu EK, Larsen-Reindorf R, Blencowe H, Jackson D. District health management and stillbirth recording and reporting: a qualitative study in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:91. [PMID: 38287283 PMCID: PMC10826143 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-024-06272-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite global efforts to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, stillbirths remain a significant public health challenge in many low- and middle-income countries. District health systems, largely seen as the backbone of health systems, are pivotal in addressing the data gaps reported for stillbirths. Available, accurate and complete data is essential for District Health Management Teams (DHMTs) to understand the burden of stillbirths, evaluate interventions and tailor health facility support to address the complex challenges that contribute to stillbirths. This study aims to understand stillbirth recording and reporting in the Ashanti Region of Ghana from the perspective of DHMTs. METHODS The study was conducted in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. 15 members of the regional and district health directorates (RHD/DHD) participated in semi-structured interviews. Sampling was purposive, focusing on RHD/DHD members who interact with maternity services or stillbirth data. Thematic analyses were informed by an a priori framework, including theme 1) experiences, perceptions and attitudes; theme 2) stillbirth data use; and theme 3) leadership and support mechanisms, for stillbirth recording and reporting. RESULTS Under theme 1, stillbirth definitions varied among respondents, with 20 and 28 weeks commonly used. Fresh and macerated skin appearance was used to classify timing with limited knowledge of antepartum and intrapartum stillbirths. For theme 2, data quality checks, audits, and the district health information management system (DHIMS-2) data entry and review are functions played by the DHD. Midwives were blamed for data quality issues on omissions and misclassifications. Manual entry of data, data transfer from the facility to the DHD, limited knowledge of stillbirth terminology and periodic closure of the DHIMS-2 were seen to proliferate gaps in stillbirth recording and reporting. Under theme 3, perinatal audits were acknowledged as an enabler for stillbirth recording and reporting by the DHD, though audits are mandated for only late-gestational stillbirths (> 28 weeks). Engagement of other sectors, e.g., civil/vital registration and private health facilities, was seen as key in understanding the true population-level burden of stillbirths. CONCLUSION Effective district health management ensures that every stillbirth is accurately recorded, reported, and acted upon to drive improvements. A large need exists for capacity building on stillbirth definitions and data use. Recommendations are made, for example, terminology standardization and private sector engagement, aimed at reducing stillbirth rates in high-mortality settings such as Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana A Mensah Abrampah
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Yemisrach B Okwaraji
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kenneth Fosu Oteng
- Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, Ghana Health Service, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ernest Konadu Asiedu
- National Centre for Coordination for Early Warning and Response Mechanisms, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Hannah Blencowe
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Debra Jackson
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
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Kalter HD, Koffi AK, Perin J, Kamwe MA, Black RE. Maternal interventions to decrease stillbirths and neonatal mortality in Tanzania: evidence from the 2017-18 cross-sectional Tanzania verbal and social autopsy study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:849. [PMID: 38082404 PMCID: PMC10714492 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06099-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reduction of Tanzania's neonatal mortality rate has lagged behind that for all under-fives, and perinatal mortality has remained stagnant over the past two decades. We conducted a national verbal and social autopsy (VASA) study to estimate the causes and social determinants of stillbirths and neonatal deaths with the aim of identifying relevant health care and social interventions. METHODS A VASA interview was conducted of all stillbirths and neonatal deaths in the prior 5 years identified by the 2015-16 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey. We evaluated associations of maternal complications with antepartum and intrapartum stillbirth and leading causes of neonatal death; conducted descriptive analyses of antenatal (ANC) and delivery care and mothers' careseeking for complications; and developed logistic regression models to examine factors associated with delivery place and mode. RESULTS There were 204 stillbirths, with 185 able to be classified as antepartum (88 [47.5%]) or intrapartum (97 [52.5%]), and 228 neonatal deaths. Women with an intrapartum stillbirth were 6.5% (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.065, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.002, 1.132) more likely to have a C-section for every additional hour before delivery after reaching the birth attendant. Antepartum hemorrhage (APH), maternal anemia, and premature rupture of membranes (PROM) were significantly positively associated with early neonatal mortality due to preterm delivery, intrapartum-related events and serious infection, respectively. While half to two-thirds of mothers made four or more ANC visits (ANC4+), a third or fewer received quality ANC (Q-ANC). Women with a complication were more likely to deliver at hospital only if they received Q-ANC (neonates: aOR = 4.5, 95% CI 1.6, 12.3) or ANC4+ (stillbirths: aOR = 11.8, 95% CI 3.6, 38.0). Nevertheless, urban residence was the strongest predictor of hospital delivery. CONCLUSIONS While Q-ANC and ANC4 + boosted hospital delivery among women with a complication, attendance was low and the quality of care is critical. Quality improvement efforts in urban and rural areas should focus on early detection and management of APH, maternal anemia, PROM, and prolonged labor, and on newborn resuscitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry D Kalter
- Department of International Health, Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America.
| | - Alain K Koffi
- Department of International Health, Health Systems, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Jamie Perin
- Department of International Health, Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Mlemba A Kamwe
- National Bureau of Statistics, Dodoma, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Robert E Black
- Department of International Health, Institute for International Programs, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
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Coetzee A, Hall DR, Langenegger EJ, van de Vyver M, Conradie M. Pregnancy and diabetic ketoacidosis: fetal jeopardy and windows of opportunity. FRONTIERS IN CLINICAL DIABETES AND HEALTHCARE 2023; 4:1266017. [PMID: 38047210 PMCID: PMC10693403 DOI: 10.3389/fcdhc.2023.1266017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) during pregnancy poses significant risks to both the mother and fetus, with an increased risk of fetal demise. Although more prevalent in women with Type I diabetes (T1D); those with Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can also develop DKA. A lack of information about DKA during pregnancy exists worldwide, including in South Africa. Objective This study examined the characteristics and outcomes associated with DKA during pregnancy. Methods The study took place between 1 April 2020 and 1 October 2022. Pregnant women with DKA, admitted to Tygerberg Hospital's Obstetric Critical Care Unit (OCCU) were included. Maternal characteristics, precipitants of DKA, adverse events during treatment, and maternal-fetal outcomes were examined. Results There were 54 episodes of DKA among 47 women. Most DKA's were mild and occurred in the third trimester. Pregestational diabetes dominated (31/47; 60%), with 47% having T1D and 94% requiring insulin. Seven women (7/47, 15%; T2D:6, T1D:1) had two episodes of DKA during the same pregnancy. Most women (32/47; 68%) were either overweight or obese. Yet, despite the T2D phenotype, biomarkers indicated that auto-immune diabetes was prevalent among women without any prior history of T1D (6/21; 29%). Twelve women (26%) developed gestational hypertension during pregnancy, and 17 (36%) pre-eclampsia. Precipitating causes of DKA included infection (14/54; 26%), insulin disruption (14/54; 26%) and betamethasone administration (10/54; 19%). More than half of the episodes of DKA involved hypokalemia (35/54, 65%) that was associated with fetal death (P=0.042) and hypoglycemia (28/54, 52%). Preterm birth (<37 weeks' gestation) occurred in 85% of women. No maternal deaths were recorded. A high fetal mortality rate (13/47; 28%) that included 11 spontaneous intrauterine deaths and two medical terminations, was observed. Conclusion Women with DKA have a high risk of fetal mortality as well as undiagnosed auto-immune diabetes. There is a strong link between maternal hypokalemia and fetal loss, suggesting an opportunity to address management gaps in pregnant women with DKA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankia Coetzee
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David R. Hall
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Eduard J. Langenegger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mari van de Vyver
- Department of Medicine, Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Magda Conradie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stellenbosch University and Tygerberg Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Damerow SM, Yeung D, Martins JSD, Pathak I, Chu Y, Liu L, Fisker AB. Provider-mother interactions are associated with birth outcome misclassifications in household surveys: A case-control study in Guinea-Bissau. J Glob Health 2023; 13:04086. [PMID: 37590896 PMCID: PMC10435094 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.13.04086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Approximately 4.4 million children die peripartum annually, primarily in low- and middle-income countries. Accurate mortality tracking is essential to prioritising prevention efforts but is undermined by misclassification between stillbirths (SBs) and early neonatal deaths (ENNDs) in household surveys, which serve as key data sources. We explored and quantified associations between peripartum provider-mother interactions and misclassification of SBs and ENNDs in Guinea-Bissau. Methods Using a case-control design, we followed up on women who had reported a SB or ENND in a retrospective household survey nested in the Bandim Health Project's Health and Demographic Surveillance Systems (HDSS). Using prospective HDSS registration as the reference standard, we linked the survey-reported deaths to the corresponding HDSS records and cross-tabulated SB/ENND classification to identify cases (discordant classification between survey and HDSS) and controls (concordant classification). We further interviewed cases and controls on peripartum provider-mother interactions and analysed data using descriptive statistics and logistic regressions. Results We interviewed 278 women (cases: 63 (23%); controls: 215 (77%)). Most cases were SBs misclassified as ENNDs (n/N = 49/63 (78%)). Three-fourths of the interviewed women reported having received no updates on the progress of labour and baby's health intrapartum, and less than one-fourth inquired about this information. In comparison with births where women did inquire for information, misclassification was less likely when women did not inquire and recalled no doubts about progress of labour (odds ratio (OR) = 0.51; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.28-0.91), or baby's health (OR = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.30-0.97). Most women reported that service providers' death notifications lasted <5 minutes (cases: 23/27 (85%); controls: 61/71 (86%)), and most often encompassed neither events leading to the death (cases: 19/27 (70%); controls: 55/71 (77%)) nor causes of death (cases: 20/27 (74%); controls: 54/71 (76%)). Misclassification was more likely if communication lasted <1 compared to 1-4 minutes (OR = 1.83; 95% CI = 1.10-3.06) and if a formal service provider had informed the mother of the death compared to a family member (OR = 1.57; 95% CI = 1.04-2.36). Conclusions Peripartum provider-mother interactions are limited in Guinea-Bissau and associated with birth outcome misclassifications in retrospective household surveys. In our study population, misclassification led to overestimated neonatal mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine M Damerow
- Bandim Health Project, INDEPTH Network, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
- Bandim Health Project, Research Unit OPEN, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Diana Yeung
- Institute for International Programs, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Ishaan Pathak
- Institute for International Programs, Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Yue Chu
- Department of Sociology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Institute for Population Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Li Liu
- Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ane B Fisker
- Bandim Health Project, INDEPTH Network, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
- Bandim Health Project, Research Unit OPEN, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Tan Y, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Peng C, Zhang Y, He M, Peng A. Prenatal ambient air pollutants exposure and the risk of stillbirth in Wuhan, central of China. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 228:115841. [PMID: 37028538 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The existing studies on the relationships of prenatal ambient air pollutants exposure with stillbirth in the Chinese population are very limited and the results are inconsistent, and the susceptible windows and potential modifiers for air pollutants exposure on stillbirth remain unanswered. OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine the relationships between exposure to ambient air pollutants and stillbirth, and explored the susceptible windows and potential modifiers for air pollutants exposure on stillbirth. METHODS A population-based cohort was established through the Wuhan Maternal and Child Health Management Information System involving 509,057 mother-infant pairs in Wuhan from January 1, 2011 through September 30, 2017. Personal exposure concentrations of fine particles (PM2.5), inhalable particles (PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3) for mothers were estimated based on their residential address during pregnancy using the inverse distance weighted (IDW) method. We used the logistic regression models to determine the associations at different stages of pregnancy with adjustment for confounding factors. RESULTS There were 3218 stillbirths and 505,839 live births among the participants. For each 100 μg/m3 of CO and 10 μg/m3 of O3 increase in the first trimester (conception to 13+6 weeks), the risk of stillbirth increased by 1.0% (OR = 1.01, 95%CI: 1.00-1.03) and 7.0% (OR = 1.07, 95%CI: 1.05-1.09). In the second trimester (14 weeks-27+6 weeks), PM2.5, PM10, CO, and O3 exposure were closely related to the risk of stillbirth (P<0.05). In the third trimester (28 weeks to delivery), for each 10 μg/m3 increase in exposure concentrations of PM2.5, SO2, and O3, the risk of stillbirth increased by 3.4%, 5.9%, and 4.0%, respectively. O3 exposure was positively relevant to the risk of stillbirth (OR = 1.11, 95%CI: 1.08-1.14) in the whole pregnancy. Exposure to NO2 was not significantly associated with the risk of stillbirth. Stratified analyses also presented a stronger association among mothers with boy infant, living in rural areas, delivering between 2011 and 2013, and those without gestational hypertension and history of stillbirth. CONCLUSION This study provides evidence that maternal exposure to PM2.5, PM10, SO2, CO, and O3 were related to the increased risk of stillbirth. Both the second and third trimesters might be vital susceptible windows for stillbirth. Our findings expand the evidence base for the important impacts of air pollution on fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Tan
- Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, No. 100 Hongkong Road, Jiangan District, Wuhan, 430016, Hubei, China
| | - Yifan Yang
- Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, No. 100 Hongkong Road, Jiangan District, Wuhan, 430016, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, No. 100 Hongkong Road, Jiangan District, Wuhan, 430016, Hubei, China
| | - Chang Peng
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Road, Qiaokou District, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, No. 100 Hongkong Road, Jiangan District, Wuhan, 430016, Hubei, China
| | - Meian He
- School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 13 Hangkong Road, Qiaokou District, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei, China.
| | - Anna Peng
- Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, No. 100 Hongkong Road, Jiangan District, Wuhan, 430016, Hubei, China.
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De Silva MS, Panisi L, Manubuasa L, Honimae C, Taragwanu S, Burggraaf S, Ogaoga D, Lindquist AC, Walker SP, Tong S, Hastie R. Incidence and causes of stillbirth in the only tertiary referral hospital in the Solomon Islands: a hospital-based retrospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066237. [PMID: 36585152 PMCID: PMC9809253 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Stillbirth is a major global health issue, which disproportionately affects families living in low-income and middle-income countries. The Solomon Islands is a Pacific nation with poor perinatal outcomes, however research investigating stillbirth is lacking. Thus, we aimed to investigate the incidence and cause of stillbirth occurring at the National Referral Hospital, Solomon Islands. DESIGN We conducted a retrospective cohort study from January 2017 to December 2018. SETTING At the only tertiary referral hospital in the Solomon Islands, on the main island of Guadalcanal. PARTICIPANTS All births occurring in the hospital during the study period. OUTCOME MEASURES Number of, causes and risk factors for stillbirths (fetal deaths before birth at ≥20 estimated gestational weeks, or ≥500 g in birth weight). RESULTS Over 2 years 341 stillbirths and 11 056 total births were recorded, giving an institutional incidence of 31 stillbirths per 1000 births. Of the cases with a recorded cause of death, 72% were deemed preventable. Most stillbirths occurred antenatally and 62% at preterm gestations (<37 weeks). 59% had a birth weight below 2500 g and preventable maternal conditions were present in 42% of the cases. 46% of the cases were caused by an acute intrapartum event, and among these 92% did not receive intrapartum monitoring. CONCLUSIONS Stillbirth affects 31 in every 1000 births at the National Referral Hospital in the Solomon Islands and many cases are preventable. Our findings highlight the urgent need for increased focus on perinatal deaths in the Solomon Islands with universal classification and targeted training, improved quality of obstetrical care and community awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manarangi Sajini De Silva
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne Melbourne Medical School, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leeanne Panisi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Referral Hospital, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Lenin Manubuasa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Referral Hospital, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Catherine Honimae
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Referral Hospital, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Susan Taragwanu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Referral Hospital, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Simon Burggraaf
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, Office of the WHO Representative in Solomon Islands, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Divinal Ogaoga
- Ministry of Health of Solomon Islands, Honiara, Solomon Islands
| | - Anthea Clare Lindquist
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan P Walker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Tong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Roxanne Hastie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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9
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McClure EM, Saleem S, Goudar SS, Tikmani SS, Dhaded SM, Hwang K, Guruprasad G, Shobha D, Sarvamangala B, Yogeshkumar S, Somannavar MS, Roujani S, Reza S, Raza J, Yasmin H, Aceituno A, Parlberg L, Kim J, Bann CM, Silver RM, Goldenberg RL. The causes of stillbirths in south Asia: results from a prospective study in India and Pakistan (PURPOSe). Lancet Glob Health 2022; 10:e970-e977. [PMID: 35714647 PMCID: PMC9210259 DOI: 10.1016/s2214-109x(22)00180-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Saleem
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Shivaprasad S Goudar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, J N Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Sangappa M Dhaded
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, J N Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | - Kay Hwang
- Research Triangle Institute International, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Gowdar Guruprasad
- Department of Neonatology, Bapuji Educational Association's JJM Medical College, Davangere, India
| | - Dhananjaya Shobha
- Department of Obstetrics, Bapuji Educational Association's JJM Medical College, Davangere, India
| | - B Sarvamangala
- Department of Obstetrics, Bapuji Educational Association's JJM Medical College, Davangere, India
| | - S Yogeshkumar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, J N Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | - Manjunath S Somannavar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, J N Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | - Sana Roujani
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sayyeda Reza
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jamal Raza
- National Institute of Child Health, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Haleema Yasmin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Anna Aceituno
- Research Triangle Institute International, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Jean Kim
- Research Triangle Institute International, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Carla M Bann
- Research Triangle Institute International, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Robert M Silver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Robert L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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10
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Effect of resuscitation training and implementation of continuous electronic heart rate monitoring on identification of stillbirth. Resuscitation 2021; 171:57-63. [PMID: 34965451 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2021.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effect of resuscitation training and continuous electronic heart rate (HR) monitoring of non-breathing newborns on identification of stillbirth. METHODS We conducted a pre-post interventional trial in three health facilities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We collected data on a retrospective control group of newborns that reflected usual resuscitation practice (Epoch 1). In the prospective, interventional group, skilled birth attendants received resuscitation training in Helping Babies Breathe and implemented continuous electronic HR monitoring of non-breathing newborns (Epoch 2). Our primary outcome was the incidence of stillbirth with secondary outcomes of fresh or macerated stillbirth, neonatal death before discharge and perinatal death. Among a subset, we conducted expert review of electronic HR data to estimate misclassification of stillbirth in Epoch 2. We used a generalized estimating equation, adjusted for variation within-facility, to compare risks between EPOCHs. RESULTS There was no change in total stillbirths following resuscitation training and continuous electronic HR monitoring of non-breathing newborns (aRR 1.15 [0.95, 1.39]). We observed an increased rate of macerated stillbirth (aRR 1.58 [1.24, 2.02]), death before discharge (aRR 3.31 [2.41, 4.54]), and perinatal death (aRR 1.61 [1.38, 1.89]) during the intervention period. In expert review, 20% of newborns with electronic HR data that were classified by SBAs as stillborn were liveborn. CONCLUSION Resuscitation training and use of continuous electronic HR monitoring did not reduce stillbirths nor eliminate misclassification.
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11
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Hwang KS, Parlberg L, Aceituno A, Moore JL, Goudar SS, Sunder Tikmani S, Saleem S, Guruprasad G, Revankar A, Habib Z, Dhaded SM, Yogesh Kumar S, Raghoji C, Kusugur V, Pujar S, Roujani S, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL. Methodology to Determine Cause of Death for Stillbirths and Neonatal Deaths Using Automated Case Reports and a Cause-of-Death Panel. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:S368-S373. [PMID: 34910185 PMCID: PMC8672739 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Review of data from multiple sources is often necessary to determine cause of death for stillbirths and neonatal deaths, especially in low- to middle-income countries (LMICs) where available data may vary. The minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS) procedure provides granular histologic and microbiologic data that clinical reports and verbal autopsies cannot provide. Expert panel evaluation of data from individual deaths can be resource-intensive but remains essential to accurately infer causes of death. Methods The Project to Understand and Research Preterms and Stillbirths in South Asia (PURPOSe) study uses review panels to evaluate causes of death in 2 LMICs. To make the process manageable, a subset of the study variables was selected with professional input and organized into case reports. Case reports include clinical information, laboratory results, fetal or neonatal organ histology and polymerase chain reaction results from tissue obtained by MITS. Panelists evaluated the complete case report forms and then determined the cause of death based on available data. Results Computerized case reports averaged 2 to 3 pages. Approximately 6 to 8 cases were reviewed and discussed per 1-hour panel meeting. All panelists were provided the same information; missing data were noted. This limited bias between panelists and across meetings. Study teams notably took ownership of data quality. Conclusions Standardized case reports for cause-of-death determination panel evaluation improve the efficiency of the review process, clarify available information, and limit bias across panelists, time, and location.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kay S Hwang
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Anna Aceituno
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Janet L Moore
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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12
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Patterson J, North K, Dempsey E, Ishoso D, Trevisanuto D, Lee AC, Kamath-Rayne BD. Optimizing initial neonatal resuscitation to reduce neonatal encephalopathy around the world. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2021; 26:101262. [PMID: 34193380 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2021.101262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
One million two hundred thousand neonatal lives are lost each year due to intrapartum-related events; 99% of these deaths occur in low- and lower middle-income countries. Neonates exposed to intrapartum-related events present with failure to breathe at birth. Quick and effective delivery room management of these neonates is critical in the prevention of brain injury. Given the prominent role of lung aeration in the cardiopulmonary transition at birth, the mainstay of neonatal resuscitation is effective ventilation. Basic neonatal resuscitation focuses on simple stimulation, airway positioning and clearing, and bag-mask ventilation. Although principles for basic neonatal resuscitation remain the same for high- and low-resource settings, guidelines may differ based on available human and material resources. Formal training in basic resuscitation reduces intrapartum-related neonatal mortality in low-resource settings. However, there remain opportunities to improve provider performance for increased impact with other strategies such as regular practice and continuous quality improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jackie Patterson
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, UNC Hospitals, 4th Floor, 101 Manning Drive, Room N45051, Campus Box 7596, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7596, USA.
| | - Krysten North
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, UNC Hospitals, 4th Floor, 101 Manning Drive, Room N45051, Campus Box 7596, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7596, USA.
| | - Eugene Dempsey
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, INFANT Research Centre, University College Cork, Wilton, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Daniel Ishoso
- Department of Community Health, Kinshasa School of Public Health, University of Kinshasa, PO Box 11850, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo.
| | - Daniele Trevisanuto
- Department of Women's and Child Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 3, Padova, Italy.
| | - Anne Cc Lee
- Harvard Medical School; Director of Global AIM Lab, Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 75 Francis Street, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Beena D Kamath-Rayne
- Global Newborn and Child Health, American Academy of Pediatrics, 345 Park Blvd, Itasca, IL, 60143, USA.
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13
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Blencowe H, Bottecchia M, Kwesiga D, Akuze J, Haider MM, Galiwango E, Dzabeng F, Fisker AB, Enuameh YAK, Geremew BM, Nareeba T, Woodd S, Beedle A, Peven K, Cousens S, Waiswa P, Lawn JE. Stillbirth outcome capture and classification in population-based surveys: EN-INDEPTH study. Popul Health Metr 2021; 19:13. [PMID: 33557841 PMCID: PMC7869203 DOI: 10.1186/s12963-020-00239-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Household surveys remain important sources of stillbirth data, but omission and misclassification are common. Classifying adverse pregnancy outcomes as stillbirths requires accurate reporting of vital status at birth and gestational age or birthweight for every pregnancy. Further categorisation, e.g. by sex, or timing (intrapartum/antepartum) improves data to understand and prevent stillbirth. METHODS We undertook a cross-sectional population-based survey of women of reproductive age in five health and demographic surveillance system sites in Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau and Uganda (2017-2018). All women answered a full birth history with pregnancy loss questions (FBH+) or a full pregnancy history (FPH). A sub-sample across both groups were asked additional stillbirth questions. Questions were evaluated using descriptive measures. Using an interpretative paradigm and phenomenology methodology, focus group discussions with women exploring barriers to reporting birthweight for stillbirths were conducted. Thematic analysis was guided by an a priori codebook. RESULTS Overall 69,176 women reported 98,483 livebirths (FBH+) and 102,873 pregnancies (FPH). Additional questions were asked for 1453 stillbirths, 1528 neonatal deaths and 12,620 surviving children born in the 5 years prior to the survey. Completeness was high (> 99%) for existing FBH+/FPH questions on signs of life at birth and gestational age (months). Discordant responses in signs of life at birth between different questions were common; nearly one-quarter classified as stillbirths on FBH+/FPH were reported born alive on additional questions. Availability of information on gestational age (weeks) (58.1%) and birthweight (13.2%) was low amongst stillbirths, and heaping was common. Most women (93.9%) were able to report the sex of their stillborn baby. Response completeness for stillbirth timing (18.3-95.1%) and estimated proportion intrapartum (15.6-90.0%) varied by question and site. Congenital malformations were reported in 3.1% stillbirths. Perceived value in weighing a stillborn baby varied and barriers to weighing at birth a nd knowing birthweight were common. CONCLUSIONS Improving stillbirth data in surveys will require investment in improving the measurement of vital status, gestational age and birthweight by healthcare providers, communication of these with women, and overcoming reporting barriers. Given the large burden and effect on families, improved data must be made available to end preventable stillbirths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Blencowe
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH) Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matteo Bottecchia
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH) Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Doris Kwesiga
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
- Centre of Excellence for Maternal Newborn and Child Health Research, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- International Maternal & Child Health, Dept. of Women and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Joseph Akuze
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH) Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
- Centre of Excellence for Maternal Newborn and Child Health Research, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Edward Galiwango
- IgangaMayuge Health and Demographic Surveillance System, Makerere University Centre for Health and Population Research, Makerere, Uganda
| | | | - Ane B. Fisker
- Bandim Health Project, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
- Research Centre for Vitamins and Vaccines, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, Open Patient data Explorative Network (OPEN), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Yeetey Akpe Kwesi Enuameh
- Kintampo Health Research Centre, Kintampo, Ghana
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Bisrat Misganaw Geremew
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tryphena Nareeba
- IgangaMayuge Health and Demographic Surveillance System, Makerere University Centre for Health and Population Research, Makerere, Uganda
| | - Susannah Woodd
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH) Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alexandra Beedle
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH) Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kimberly Peven
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH) Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Simon Cousens
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH) Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Peter Waiswa
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, Makerere University School of Public Health, Kampala, Uganda
- Centre of Excellence for Maternal Newborn and Child Health Research, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joy E. Lawn
- Maternal, Adolescent, Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH) Centre, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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14
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Preventable stillbirths in the Solomon Islands - A hidden tragedy. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH-WESTERN PACIFIC 2020; 5:100050. [PMID: 34327394 PMCID: PMC8315449 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2020.100050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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