1
|
Harakuni SU, Somannavar MS, Ghanchi NK, Ahmed I, Zafar A, Kim J, Tikmani SS, Hwang K, Saleem S, Goudar SS, Dhaded S, Guruprasad G, Yasmin H, Yogeshkumar S, Aceituno A, Silver RM, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL. Pathogens identified in the internal tissues and placentas of stillbirths: results from the prospective, observational PURPOSe study. BJOG 2023. [PMID: 37069731 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine internal organ tissues and placentas of stillbirths for various pathogens. DESIGN Prospective, observational study. SETTINGS Three study hospitals in India and a large maternity hospital in Pakistan. POPULATION Stillborn infants delivered in a study hospital. METHODS A prospective observational study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Organisms identified by pathogen polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in internal organs and placental tissues of stillbirths. RESULTS Of 2437 stillbirth internal tissues, 8.3% (95% CI 7.2-9.4) were positive. Organisms were most commonly detected in brain (12.3%), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) (9.5%) and whole blood (8.4%). Ureaplasma urealyticum/parvum was the organism most frequently detected in at least one internal organ (6.4% of stillbirths and 2% of all tissues). Escherichia coli/Shigella was the next most common (4.1% one or more internal organ tissue sample and 1.3% of tissue samples), followed by Staphylococcus aureus in at least one internal organ tissue (1.9% and 0.9% of all tissues). None of the other organisms was found in more than 1.4% of the tissue samples in stillbirths or more than 0.6% of the internal tissues examined. In the placenta tissue, membrane or cord blood combined, 42.8% (95% CI 40.2-45.3) had at least one organism identified, with U. urealyticum/parvum representing the most commonly identified (27.8%). CONCLUSIONS In about 8% of stillbirths, there was evidence of a pathogen in an internal organ. Ureaplasma urealyticum/parvum was the most common organism found in the placenta and in the internal tissues, especially in the fetal brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S U Harakuni
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Researchs, J N Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - M S Somannavar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Researchs, J N Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | | | - I Ahmed
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - A Zafar
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - J Kim
- RTI International, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - K Hwang
- RTI International, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - S Saleem
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
- RTI International, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - S S Goudar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Researchs, J N Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - S Dhaded
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Researchs, J N Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - G Guruprasad
- Bapuji Educational Association's J.J.M. Medical College, Davangere, India
| | - H Yasmin
- Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - S Yogeshkumar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Researchs, J N Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - A Aceituno
- RTI International, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - R M Silver
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - E M McClure
- RTI International, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
McClure EM, Goldenberg RL. Preterm neonatal survival: what is the role of prognostic models? BJOG 2021; 129:539. [PMID: 34779557 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E M McClure
- Social, Statistical and Environmental Sciences, RTI International, Durham, NC, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Goldenberg RL, McClure EM. Antibiotics at delivery: do the benefits outweigh the risks? BJOG 2021; 129:731-732. [PMID: 34780123 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - E M McClure
- Research Triangle Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Goldenberg RL, Saleem S, Goudar SS, Silver RM, Tikmani SS, Guruprasad G, Dhaded SM, Yasmin H, Bano K, Somannavar MS, Yogeshkumar S, Hwang K, Aceituno A, Parlberg L, McClure EM. Preventable stillbirths in India and Pakistan: a prospective, observational study. BJOG 2021; 128:1762-1773. [PMID: 34173998 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Stillbirths occur 10-20 times more frequently in low-income settings compared with high-income settings. We created a methodology to define the proportion of stillbirths that are potentially preventable in low-income settings and applied it to stillbirths in sites in India and Pakistan. DESIGN Prospective observational study. SETTING Three maternity hospitals in Davangere, India and a large public hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. POPULATION All cases of stillbirth at ≥20 weeks of gestation occurring from July 2018 to February 2020 were screened for participation; 872 stillbirths were included in this analysis. METHODS We prospectively defined the conditions and gestational ages that defined the stillbirth cases considered potentially preventable. Informed consent was sought from the parent(s) once the stillbirth was identified, either before or soon after delivery. All information available, including obstetric and medical history, clinical course, fetal heart sounds on admission, the presence of maceration as well as examination of the stillbirth after delivery, histology, and polymerase chain reaction for infectious pathogens of the placenta and various fetal tissues, was used to assess whether a stillbirth was potentially preventable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Whether a stillbirth was determined to be potentially preventable and the criteria for assignment to those categories. RESULTS Of 984 enrolled, 872 stillbirths at ≥20 weeks of gestation met the inclusion criteria and were included; of these, 55.5% were deemed to be potentially preventable. Of the 649 stillbirths at ≥28 weeks of gestation and ≥1000 g birthweight, 73.5% were considered potentially preventable. The most common conditions associated with a potentially preventable stillbirth at ≥28 weeks of gestation and ≥1000 g birthweight were small for gestational age (SGA) (52.8%), maternal hypertension (50.2%), antepartum haemorrhage (31.4%) and death that occurred after hospital admission (15.7%). CONCLUSIONS Most stillbirths in these sites were deemed preventable and were often associated with maternal hypertension, antepartum haemorrhage, SGA and intrapartum demise. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Most stillbirths are preventable by better care for women with hypertension, growth restriction and antepartum haemorrhage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - S Saleem
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - S S Goudar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - R M Silver
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | | | - S M Dhaded
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - H Yasmin
- Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - K Bano
- Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - M S Somannavar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - S Yogeshkumar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - K Hwang
- RTI International, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bresnahan BW, Vodicka E, Babigumira JB, Malik AM, Yego F, Lokangaka A, Chitah BM, Bauer Z, Chavez H, Moore JL, Garrison LP, Swanson JO, Swanson D, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL, Esamai F, Garces AL, Chomba E, Saleem S, Tshefu A, Bose CL, Bauserman M, Carlo W, Bucher S, Liechty EA, Nathan RO. Cost estimation alongside a multi-regional, multi-country randomized trial of antenatal ultrasound in five low-and-middle-income countries. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:952. [PMID: 34016085 PMCID: PMC8135981 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10750-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving maternal health has been a primary goal of international health agencies for many years, with the aim of reducing maternal and child deaths and improving access to antenatal care (ANC) services, particularly in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). Health interventions with these aims have received more attention from a clinical effectiveness perspective than for cost impact and economic efficiency. METHODS We collected data on resource use and costs as part of a large, multi-country study assessing the use of routine antenatal screening ultrasound (US) with the aim of considering the implications for economic efficiency. We assessed typical antenatal outpatient and hospital-based (facility) care for pregnant women, in general, with selective complication-related data collection in women participating in a large maternal health registry and clinical trial in five LMICs. We estimated average costs from a facility/health system perspective for outpatient and inpatient services. We converted all country-level currency cost estimates to 2015 United States dollars (USD). We compared average costs across countries for ANC visits, deliveries, higher-risk pregnancies, and complications, and conducted sensitivity analyses. RESULTS Our study included sites in five countries representing different regions. Overall, the relative cost of individual ANC and delivery-related healthcare use was consistent among countries, generally corresponding to country-specific income levels. ANC outpatient visit cost estimates per patient among countries ranged from 15 to 30 USD, based on average counts for visits with and without US. Estimates for antenatal screening US visits were more costly than non-US visits. Costs associated with higher-risk pregnancies were influenced by rates of hospital delivery by cesarean section (mean per person delivery cost estimate range: 25-65 USD). CONCLUSIONS Despite substantial differences among countries in infrastructures and health system capacity, there were similarities in resource allocation, delivery location, and country-level challenges. Overall, there was no clear suggestion that adding antenatal screening US would result in either major cost savings or major cost increases. However, antenatal screening US would have higher training and maintenance costs. Given the lack of clinical effectiveness evidence and greater resource constraints of LMICs, it is unlikely that introducing antenatal screening US would be economically efficient in these settings--on the demand side (i.e., patients) or supply side (i.e., healthcare providers). TRIAL REGISTRATION Trial number: NCT01990625 (First posted: November 21, 2013 on https://clinicaltrials.gov ).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B W Bresnahan
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - E Vodicka
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - J B Babigumira
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - A M Malik
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - F Yego
- Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - A Lokangaka
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | | | - Z Bauer
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - H Chavez
- University of Francisco Marroquin, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | | | - L P Garrison
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - J O Swanson
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - D Swanson
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - E Chomba
- University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - S Saleem
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - A Tshefu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - C L Bose
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - M Bauserman
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - W Carlo
- University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - S Bucher
- Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - R O Nathan
- Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jessani S, Saleem S, Hoffman MK, Goudar SS, Derman RJ, Moore JL, Garces A, Figueroa L, Krebs NF, Okitawutshu J, Tshefu A, Bose CL, Mwenechanya M, Chomba E, Carlo WA, Das PK, Patel A, Hibberd PL, Esamai F, Liechty EA, Bucher S, Nolen TL, Koso-Thomas M, Miodovnik M, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL. Association of haemoglobin levels in the first trimester and at 26-30 weeks with fetal and neonatal outcomes: a secondary analysis of the Global Network for Women's and Children's Health's ASPIRIN Trial. BJOG 2021; 128:1487-1496. [PMID: 33629490 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Limited data are available from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) on the relationship of haemoglobin levels to adverse outcomes at different times during pregnancy. We evaluated the association of haemoglobin levels in nulliparous women at two times in pregnancy with pregnancy outcomes. DESIGN ASPIRIN Trial data were used to study the association between haemoglobin levels measured at 6+0 -13+6 weeks and 26+0 -30+0 weeks of gestation with fetal and neonatal outcomes. SETTING Obstetric care facilities in Pakistan, India, Kenya, Zambia, The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Guatemala. POPULATION A total of 11 976 pregnant women. METHODS Generalised linear models were used to obtain adjusted relative risks and 95% CI for adverse outcomes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Preterm birth, stillbirth, neonatal death, small for gestational age (SGA) and birthweight <2500 g. RESULTS The mean haemoglobin levels at 6+0 -13+6 weeks and at 26-30 weeks of gestation were 116 g/l (SD 17) and 107 g/l (SD 15), respectively. In general, pregnancy outcomes were better with increasing haemoglobin. At 6+0 -13+6 weeks of gestation, stillbirth, SGA and birthweight <2500 g, were significantly associated with haemoglobin of 70-89 g/l compared with haemoglobin of 110-129 g/l The relationships of adverse pregnancy outcomes with various haemoglobin levels were more marked at 26-30 weeks of gestation. CONCLUSIONS Both lower and some higher haemoglobin concentrations are associated with adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes at 6+0 -13+6 weeks and at 26-30 weeks of gestation, although the relationship with low haemoglobin levels appears more consistent and generally stronger. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Both lower and some higher haemoglobin concentrations were associated with adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes at 6-13 weeks and 26-30 weeks of gestation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Jessani
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - S Saleem
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - M K Hoffman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Christiana Care, Newark, DE, USA
| | - S S Goudar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | - R J Derman
- Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - J L Moore
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - A Garces
- Instituto de Nutrición de Centroamérica y Panamá, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - L Figueroa
- Instituto de Nutrición de Centroamérica y Panamá, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - N F Krebs
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO, USA
| | - J Okitawutshu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - A Tshefu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - C L Bose
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - E Chomba
- University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - W A Carlo
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - P K Das
- Lata Medical Research Foundation, Nagpur, India
| | - A Patel
- Lata Medical Research Foundation, Nagpur, India.,Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, India
| | - P L Hibberd
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - F Esamai
- Department of Child Health and Paediatrics, Moi University School of Medicine, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - E A Liechty
- School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - S Bucher
- School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - T L Nolen
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - M Koso-Thomas
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - M Miodovnik
- Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - E M McClure
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - R L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Affiliation(s)
- R L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - E M McClure
- Statistical, Environmental, and Health Sciences, Research Triangle Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Parks S, Hoffman MK, Goudar SS, Patel A, Saleem S, Ali SA, Goldenberg RL, Hibberd PL, Moore J, Wallace D, McClure EM, Derman RJ. Maternal anaemia and maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes in a prospective cohort study in India and Pakistan. BJOG 2019; 126:737-743. [PMID: 30554474 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the association of maternal anaemia with maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Rural India and Pakistan. POPULATION Pregnant women residing in the study catchment area. METHODS We performed an analysis of a prospective pregnancy registry in which haemoglobin is commonly obtained as well as maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes for 42 days post-delivery. Women 40 years or older who delivered before 20 weeks or had a haemoglobin level of <3.0 g/dl were excluded. Our primary exposure was maternal anaemia, which was categorised in keeping with World Health Organization criteria based on a normal (≥11 g/dl), mild (>10-10.9 g/dl), moderate (7-9.9 g/dl) or severe (<7 g/dl). haemoglobin level. The primary maternal outcome was maternal death, the primary fetal outcome was stillbirth, and the primary neonatal outcome was neonatal mortality <28 days. RESULTS A total of 92 247 deliveries and 93 107 infants were included, of which 87.8% were born to mothers who were anaemic (mild 37.9%, moderate 49.1%, and severe 0.7%). Maternal mortality (number per 100 000) was not associated with anaemia: normal 124, mild 106, moderate 135, and severe 325 (P = 0.64). Fetal and neonatal mortality was associated with severe anaemia: stillbirth rate (n/1000)-normal 27.7, mild 25.8, moderate 30.1, and severe 90.9; P < 0.0001; 28-day neonatal mortality (n/1000)-normal 24.7, mild 22.9, moderate 28.1, and severe 72.6 (P < 0.0001). Severe maternal anaemia was also associated with low birthweight (<2500 and <1500 g), preterm birth, and postpartum haemorrhage. CONCLUSION Severe maternal anaemia is associated with higher risks of poor maternal, fetal, and neonatal outcomes but other degrees of anaemia are not. Interventions directed at preventing severe anaemia in pregnant women should be considered. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Severe maternal anaemia is associated with adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes in low/middle-income countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Parks
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Christiana Care Health System, Newark, DE, USA
| | - M K Hoffman
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Christiana Care Health System, Newark, DE, USA
| | - S S Goudar
- KLE Academy of Higher Education and Research, Belgaum, India
| | - A Patel
- Lata Medical Research Foundation, Nagpur, India
| | - S Saleem
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - S A Ali
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - R L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - P L Hibberd
- Department of Global Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - J Moore
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - D Wallace
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - E M McClure
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - R J Derman
- Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Goldenberg RL, Nathan RO, Swanson D, Saleem S, Mirza W, Esamai F, Muyodi D, Garces AL, Figueroa L, Chomba E, Chiwala M, Mwenechanya M, Tshefu A, Lokangako A, Bolamba VL, Moore JL, Franklin H, Swanson J, Liechty EA, Bose CL, Krebs NF, Michael Hambidge K, Carlo WA, Kanaiza N, Naqvi F, Pineda IS, López-Gomez W, Hamsumonde D, Harrison MS, Koso-Thomas M, Miodovnik M, Wallace DD, McClure EM. Routine antenatal ultrasound in low- and middle-income countries: first look - a cluster randomised trial. BJOG 2018; 125:1591-1599. [PMID: 29782696 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ultrasound is widely regarded as an important adjunct to antenatal care (ANC) to guide practice and reduce perinatal mortality. We assessed the impact of ANC ultrasound use at health centres in resource-limited countries. DESIGN Cluster randomised trial. SETTING Clusters within five countries (Democratic Republic of Congo, Guatemala, Kenya, Pakistan, and Zambia) METHODS: Clusters were randomised to standard ANC or standard care plus two ultrasounds and referral for complications. The study trained providers in intervention clusters to perform basic obstetric ultrasounds. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome was a composite of maternal mortality, maternal near-miss mortality, stillbirth, and neonatal mortality. RESULTS During the 24-month trial, 28 intervention and 28 control clusters had 24 263 and 23 160 births, respectively; 78% in the intervention clusters received at least one study ultrasound; 60% received two. The prevalence of conditions noted including twins, placenta previa, and abnormal lie was within expected ranges. 9% were referred for an ultrasound-diagnosed condition, and 71% attended the referral. The ANC (RR 1.0 95% CI 1.00, 1.01) and hospital delivery rates for complicated pregnancies (RR 1.03 95% CI 0.89, 1.20) did not differ between intervention and control clusters nor did the composite outcome (RR 1.09 95% CI 0.97, 1.23) or its individual components. CONCLUSIONS Despite availability of ultrasound at ANC in the intervention clusters, neither ANC nor hospital delivery for complicated pregnancies increased. The composite outcome and the individual components were not reduced. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Antenatal care ultrasound did not improve a composite outcome that included maternal, fetal, and neonatal mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - R O Nathan
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - D Swanson
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - S Saleem
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - W Mirza
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | | | | | | | - E Chomba
- University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - M Chiwala
- University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - A Tshefu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, DRC
| | - A Lokangako
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, DRC
| | - V L Bolamba
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, DRC
| | | | | | - J Swanson
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - C L Bose
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - N F Krebs
- University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | | | - W A Carlo
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - F Naqvi
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - I S Pineda
- San Carlos University, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pasha O, McClure EM, Saleem S, Tikmani SS, Lokangaka A, Tshefu A, Bose CL, Bauserman M, Mwenechanya M, Chomba E, Carlo WA, Garces AL, Figueroa L, Hambidge KM, Krebs NF, Goudar S, Kodkany BS, Dhaded S, Derman RJ, Patel A, Hibberd PL, Esamai F, Tenge C, Liechty EA, Moore JL, Wallace DD, Koso-Thomas M, Miodovnik M, Goldenberg RL. A prospective cause of death classification system for maternal deaths in low and middle-income countries: results from the Global Network Maternal Newborn Health Registry. BJOG 2018; 125:1137-1143. [PMID: 29094456 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the causes of maternal death in a population-based cohort in six low- and middle-income countries using a standardised, hierarchical, algorithmic cause of death (COD) methodology. DESIGN A population-based, prospective observational study. SETTING Seven sites in six low- to middle-income countries including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Guatemala, India (two sites), Kenya, Pakistan and Zambia. POPULATION All deaths among pregnant women resident in the study sites from 2014 to December 2016. METHODS For women who died, we used a standardised questionnaire to collect clinical data regarding maternal conditions present during pregnancy and delivery. These data were analysed using a computer-based algorithm to assign cause of maternal death based on the International Classification of Disease-Maternal Mortality system (trauma, termination of pregnancy-related, eclampsia, haemorrhage, pregnancy-related infection and medical conditions). We also compared the COD results to healthcare-provider-assigned maternal COD. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Assigned causes of maternal mortality. RESULTS Among 158 205 women, there were 221 maternal deaths. The most common algorithm-assigned maternal COD were obstetric haemorrhage (38.6%), pregnancy-related infection (26.4%) and pre-eclampsia/eclampsia (18.2%). Agreement between algorithm-assigned COD and COD assigned by healthcare providers ranged from 75% for haemorrhage to 25% for medical causes coincident to pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS The major maternal COD in the Global Network sites were haemorrhage, pregnancy-related infection and pre-eclampsia/eclampsia. This system could allow public health programmes in low- and middle-income countries to generate transparent and comparable data for maternal COD across time or regions. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT An algorithmic system for determining maternal cause of death in low-resource settings is described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O Pasha
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.,Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - S Saleem
- Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - A Lokangaka
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - A Tshefu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - C L Bose
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - M Bauserman
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - E Chomba
- University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - W A Carlo
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | | | - K M Hambidge
- University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Denver, CO, USA
| | - N F Krebs
- University of Colorado, School of Medicine, Denver, CO, USA
| | - S Goudar
- KLE University's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - B S Kodkany
- KLE University's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - S Dhaded
- KLE University's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - R J Derman
- Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - A Patel
- Lata Medical Research Foundation, Nagpur, India
| | | | | | - C Tenge
- Moi University, Eldoret, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | | | - R L Goldenberg
- Columbia University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Goldenberg RL, McClure EM. Authors' reply re: Clinical interventions to reduce stillbirths in sub-Saharan Africa: a mathematical model to estimate the potential reduction of stillbirths associated with specific obstetric conditions. BJOG 2018; 125:766-767. [PMID: 29479796 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - E M McClure
- Research Triangle Institute, Durham, NC, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Goldenberg RL, Griffin JB, Kamath-Rayne BD, Harrison M, Rouse DJ, Moran K, Hepler B, Jobe AH, McClure EM. Clinical interventions to reduce stillbirths in sub-Saharan Africa: a mathematical model to estimate the potential reduction of stillbirths associated with specific obstetric conditions. BJOG 2018; 125:119-129. [PMID: 27704677 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.14304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Stillbirths are among the most common adverse pregnancy outcomes, with 98% occurring in low-income countries. More than one-third occur in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, the medical conditions causing stillbirths and interventions to reduce stillbirths from these conditions are not well documented. We estimated the reductions in stillbirths possible with combinations of interventions. DESIGN We developed a computerised model to estimate the impact of various interventions on stillbirths caused by the most common conditions. The model considered the location of obstetric care (home, clinic or hospital) and each intervention's efficacy, penetration and utilisation. Maternal transfers were also considered. SETTING AND POPULATION Pregnancies in SSA in 2012. METHODS For each condition, we created a series of scenarios involving different combinations of interventions and modelled their impact on stillbirth rates. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Stillbirths associated with various maternal and fetal conditions and the percentage reduction with various interventions. RESULTS Eight to ten maternal and fetal conditions were responsible for most stillbirths, but none for more than 15%. The most common conditions causing stillbirths in SSA include obstructed labour and uterine rupture, fetal distress and umbilical cord complications, fetal growth restriction, pre-eclampsia/eclampsia, and placental abruption/placenta praevia. Syphilis and malaria contribute smaller numbers. Reducing stillbirths requires appropriate diagnosis and management of each condition, usually including hospital care for monitoring and delivery, often by caesarean section. Maternal syphilis and malaria were the only conditions for which outpatient management alone reduced stillbirth. CONCLUSIONS Most stillbirths in low-income countries occur at term and during labour and therefore are preventable by appropriate obstetric care. Management focused on the maternal and fetal conditions that cause stillbirths is necessary to achieve stillbirth rates approaching those found in high-income countries. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Reducing stillbirth incidence requires appropriate management of each causative condition and often caesarean delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - J B Griffin
- Statistical, Social and Environmental Health Sciences, RTI International, Durham, NC, USA
| | - B D Kamath-Rayne
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - M Harrison
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - D J Rouse
- Statistical, Social and Environmental Health Sciences, RTI International, Durham, NC, USA
| | - K Moran
- Statistical, Social and Environmental Health Sciences, RTI International, Durham, NC, USA
| | - B Hepler
- Statistical, Social and Environmental Health Sciences, RTI International, Durham, NC, USA
| | - A H Jobe
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - E M McClure
- Statistical, Social and Environmental Health Sciences, RTI International, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Reinebrant HE, Leisher SH, Coory M, Henry S, Wojcieszek AM, Gardener G, Lourie R, Ellwood D, Teoh Z, Allanson E, Blencowe H, Draper ES, Erwich JJ, Frøen JF, Gardosi J, Gold K, Gordijn S, Gordon A, Heazell A, Khong TY, Korteweg F, Lawn JE, McClure EM, Oats J, Pattinson R, Pettersson K, Siassakos D, Silver RM, Smith G, Tunçalp Ö, Flenady V. Making stillbirths visible: a systematic review of globally reported causes of stillbirth. BJOG 2017; 125:212-224. [PMID: 29193794 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.14971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stillbirth is a global health problem. The World Health Organization (WHO) application of the International Classification of Diseases for perinatal mortality (ICD-PM) aims to improve data on stillbirth to enable prevention. OBJECTIVES To identify globally reported causes of stillbirth, classification systems, and alignment with the ICD-PM. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline, Global Health, and Pubmed from 2009 to 2016. SELECTION CRITERIA Reports of stillbirth causes in unselective cohorts. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Pooled estimates of causes were derived for country representative reports. Systems and causes were assessed for alignment with the ICD-PM. Data are presented by income setting (low, middle, and high income countries; LIC, MIC, HIC). MAIN RESULTS Eighty-five reports from 50 countries (489 089 stillbirths) were included. The most frequent categories were Unexplained, Antepartum haemorrhage, and Other (all settings); Infection and Hypoxic peripartum (LIC), and Placental (MIC, HIC). Overall report quality was low. Only one classification system fully aligned with ICD-PM. All stillbirth causes mapped to ICD-PM. In a subset from HIC, mapping obscured major causes. CONCLUSIONS There is a paucity of quality information on causes of stillbirth globally. Improving investigation of stillbirths and standardisation of audit and classification is urgently needed and should be achievable in all well-resourced settings. Implementation of the WHO Perinatal Mortality Audit and Review guide is needed, particularly across high burden settings. FUNDING HR, SH, SHL, and AW were supported by an NHMRC-CRE grant (APP1116640). VF was funded by an NHMRC-CDF (APP1123611). TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Urgent need to improve data on causes of stillbirths across all settings to meet global targets. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY Background and methods Nearly three million babies are stillborn every year. These deaths have deep and long-lasting effects on parents, healthcare providers, and the society. One of the major challenges to preventing stillbirths is the lack of information about why they happen. In this study, we collected reports on the causes of stillbirth from high-, middle-, and low-income countries to: (1) Understand the causes of stillbirth, and (2) Understand how to improve reporting of stillbirths. Findings We found 85 reports from 50 different countries. The information available from the reports was inconsistent and often of poor quality, so it was hard to get a clear picture about what are the causes of stillbirth across the world. Many different definitions of stillbirth were used. There was also wide variation in what investigations of the mother and baby were undertaken to identify the cause of stillbirth. Stillbirths in all income settings (low-, middle-, and high-income countries) were most frequently reported as Unexplained, Other, and Haemorrhage (bleeding). Unexplained and Other are not helpful in understanding why a baby was stillborn. In low-income countries, stillbirths were often attributed to Infection and Complications during labour and birth. In middle- and high-income countries, stillbirths were often reported as Placental complications. Limitations We may have missed some reports as searches were carried out in English only. The available reports were of poor quality. Implications Many countries, particularly those where the majority of stillbirths occur, do not report any information about these deaths. Where there are reports, the quality is often poor. It is important to improve the investigation and reporting of stillbirth using a standardised system so that policy makers and healthcare workers can develop effective stillbirth prevention programs. All stillbirths should be investigated and reported in line with the World Health Organization standards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H E Reinebrant
- Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland (MRI-UQ), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK
| | - S H Leisher
- Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland (MRI-UQ), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK
| | - M Coory
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - S Henry
- Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland (MRI-UQ), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK
| | - A M Wojcieszek
- Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland (MRI-UQ), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK
| | - G Gardener
- Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland (MRI-UQ), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK
| | - R Lourie
- Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland (MRI-UQ), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - D Ellwood
- Griffith University School of Medicine, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia.,Gold Coast University Hospital, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| | - Z Teoh
- Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland (MRI-UQ), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Medicine-Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - E Allanson
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research including UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.,School of Women's and Infants' Health, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - H Blencowe
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - E S Draper
- MBRRACE-UK, Department of Health Sciences, University of Leicester Centre for Medicine, Leicester, UK
| | - J J Erwich
- International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK.,University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - J F Frøen
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.,Centre for Intervention Science in Maternal and Child Health (CISMAC), University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - K Gold
- International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK.,Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - S Gordijn
- International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK.,University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - A Gordon
- University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Aep Heazell
- Division of Developmental Biomedicine, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - T Y Khong
- SA Pathology, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - F Korteweg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Martini Hospital, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - J E Lawn
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - E M McClure
- International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK.,Department of Social, Statistical and Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - J Oats
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Consultative Council on Obstetric and Paediatric Mortality and Morbidity (CCOPMM), Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - R Pattinson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - K Pettersson
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - D Siassakos
- International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK.,Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Social and Community Medicine, Southmead Hospital, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - R M Silver
- University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Gcs Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NIHR Cambridge Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ö Tunçalp
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research including UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP), World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - V Flenady
- Centre of Research Excellence in Stillbirth, Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland (MRI-UQ), Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,International Stillbirth Alliance, Bristol, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
McClure EM, Goldenberg RL. More evidence needed for association between sleep practices and stillbirth. BJOG 2017; 125:263. [PMID: 29168604 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.14985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
15
|
Goldenberg RL, McClure EM. Considerations for reporting of stillbirths and fetal deaths. BJOG 2017; 125:107. [PMID: 28865174 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.14912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Affiliation(s)
| | - EM McClure
- Research Triangle Institute International; Durham NC USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
|
18
|
McClure EM, Garces A, Saleem S, Moore JL, Bose CL, Esamai F, Goudar SS, Chomba E, Mwenechanya M, Pasha O, Tshefu A, Patel A, Dhaded SM, Tenge C, Marete I, Bauserman M, Sunder S, Kodkany BS, Carlo WA, Derman RJ, Hibberd PL, Liechty EA, Hambidge KM, Krebs NF, Koso-Thomas M, Miodovnik M, Wallace DD, Goldenberg RL. Global Network for Women's and Children's Health Research: probable causes of stillbirth in low- and middle-income countries using a prospectively defined classification system. BJOG 2017; 125:131-138. [PMID: 28139875 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.14493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to classify causes of stillbirth for six low-middle-income countries using a prospectively defined algorithm. DESIGN Prospective, observational study. SETTING Communities in India, Pakistan, Guatemala, Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia and Kenya. POPULATION Pregnant women residing in defined study regions. METHODS Basic data regarding conditions present during pregnancy and delivery were collected. Using these data, a computer-based hierarchal algorithm assigned cause of stillbirth. Causes included birth trauma, congenital anomaly, infection, asphyxia, and preterm birth, based on existing cause of death classifications and included contributing maternal conditions. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary cause of stillbirth. RESULTS Of 109 911 women who were enrolled and delivered (99% of those screened in pregnancy), 2847 had a stillbirth (a rate of 27.2 per 1000 births). Asphyxia was the cause of 46.6% of the stillbirths, followed by infection (20.8%), congenital anomalies (8.4%) and prematurity (6.6%). Among those caused by asphyxia, 38% had prolonged or obstructed labour, 19% antepartum haemorrhage and 18% pre-eclampsia/eclampsia. About two-thirds (67.4%) of the stillbirths did not have signs of maceration. CONCLUSIONS Our algorithm determined cause of stillbirth from basic data obtained from lay-health providers. The major cause of stillbirth was fetal asphyxia associated with prolonged or obstructed labour, pre-eclampsia and antepartum haemorrhage. In the African sites, infection also was an important contributor to stillbirth. Using this algorithm, we documented cause of stillbirth and its trends to inform public health programs, using consistency, transparency, and comparability across time or regions with minimal burden on the healthcare system. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Major causes of stillbirth are asphyxia, pre-eclampsia and haemorrhage. Infections are important in Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - A Garces
- Materno Infantil Unidad de Planificación, INCAP, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - S Saleem
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - C L Bose
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - F Esamai
- Department of Paediatrics, Moi University College of Health and Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - S S Goudar
- KLE University's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - E Chomba
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - M Mwenechanya
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - O Pasha
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - A Tshefu
- Kinshasa School of Public Health, Kinshasa, DRC
| | - A Patel
- Lata Medical Research Foundation, Nagpur, India
| | - S M Dhaded
- KLE University's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - C Tenge
- Department of Paediatrics, Moi University College of Health and Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - I Marete
- Department of Paediatrics, Moi University College of Health and Sciences, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - M Bauserman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - S Sunder
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - B S Kodkany
- KLE University's JN Medical College, Belagavi, India
| | - W A Carlo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - R J Derman
- Department of Obstetrics, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - E A Liechty
- Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - K M Hambidge
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - N F Krebs
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
| | - M Koso-Thomas
- Perinatology and Pregnancy Branch, NICHD, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - M Miodovnik
- Perinatology and Pregnancy Branch, NICHD, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
|
20
|
Affiliation(s)
- RL Goldenberg
- Columbia University School of Medicine; New York City New York USA
| | - EM McClure
- Research Triangle Institute; Research Triangle Park North Carolina USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Engmann C, Garces A, Jehan I, Ditekemena J, Phiri M, Thorsten V, Mazariegos M, Chomba E, Pasha O, Tshefu A, Wallace D, McClure EM, Goldenberg RL, Carlo WA, Wright LL, Bose C. Birth attendants as perinatal verbal autopsy respondents in low- and middle-income countries: a viable alternative? Bull World Health Organ 2011; 90:200-8. [PMID: 22461715 DOI: 10.2471/blt.11.092452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2011] [Revised: 11/07/2011] [Accepted: 11/09/2011] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the feasibility of using birth attendants instead of bereaved mothers as perinatal verbal autopsy respondents. METHODS Verbal autopsy interviews for early neonatal deaths and stillbirths were conducted separately among mothers (reference standard) and birth attendants in 38 communities in four developing countries. Concordance between maternal and attendant responses was calculated for all questions, for categories of questions and for individual questions. The sensitivity and specificity of individual questions with the birth attendant as respondent were assessed. FINDINGS For early neonatal deaths, concordance across all questions was 94%. Concordance was at least 95% for more than half the questions on maternal medical history, birth attendance and neonate characteristics. Concordance on any given question was never less than 80%. Sensitivity and specificity varied across individual questions, more than 80% of which had a sensitivity of at least 80% and a specificity of at least 90%. For stillbirths, concordance across all questions was 93%. Concordance was 95% or greater more than half the time for questions on birth attendance, site of delivery and stillborn characteristics. Sensitivity and specificity varied across individual questions. Over 60% of the questions had a sensitivity of at least 80% and over 80% of them had a specificity of at least 90%. Overall, the causes of death established through verbal autopsy were similar, regardless of respondent. CONCLUSION Birth attendants can substitute for bereaved mothers as verbal autopsy respondents. The questions in existing harmonized verbal autopsy questionnaires need further refinement, as their sensitivity and specificity differ widely.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Engmann
- Department of Pediatrics and Maternal and Child Health, University of North Carolina Schools of Medicine and Public Health, UNC Hospitals, UNC-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7596, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Engmann C, Jehan I, Ditekemena J, Garces A, Phiri M, Mazariegos M, Chomba E, Pasha O, Tshefu A, McClure EM, Thorsten V, Chakraborty H, Goldenberg RL, Bose C, Carlo WA, Wright LL. An alternative strategy for perinatal verbal autopsy coding: single versus multiple coders. Trop Med Int Health 2011; 16:18-29. [PMID: 21371206 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2010.02679.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the comparability between cause of death (COD) by a single physician coder and a two-physician panel, using verbal autopsy. METHODS The study was conducted between May 2007 and June 2008. Within a week of a perinatal death in 38 rural remote communities in Guatemala, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia and Pakistan, VA questionnaires were completed. Two independent physicians, unaware of the others decisions, assigned an underlying COD, in accordance with the causes listed in the chapter headings of the International classification diseases and related health problems, 10th revision (ICD-10). Cohen's kappa statistic was used to assess level of agreement between physician coders. RESULTS There were 9461 births during the study period; 252 deaths met study enrolment criteria and underwent verbal autopsy. Physicians assigned the same COD for 75% of stillbirths (SB) (K = 0.69; 95% confidence interval: 0.61-0.78) and 82% early neonatal deaths (END) (K = 0.75; 95% confidence interval: 0.65-0.84). The patterns and proportion of SBs and ENDs determined by the physician coders were very similar compared to causes individually assigned by each physician. Similarly, rank order of the top five causes of SB and END was identical for each physician. CONCLUSION This study raises important questions about the utility of a system of multiple coders that is currently widely accepted and speculates that a single physician coder may be an effective and economical alternative to VA programmes that use traditional two-physician panels to assign COD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Engmann
- Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7596, USA. USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Engmann C, Jehan I, Ditekemena J, Garces A, Phiri M, Mazariegos M, Chomba E, Pasha O, Tshefu A, Hemed Y, McClure EM, Thorsten V, Bann C, Goldenberg RL, Bose C, Setel P, Carlo WA, Wright LL. Using verbal autopsy to ascertain perinatal cause of death: are trained non-physicians adequate? Trop Med Int Health 2009; 14:1496-504. [PMID: 19799757 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.2009.02395.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To develop a standardized verbal autopsy (VA) training program and evaluate whether its implementation resulted in comparable knowledge required to classify perinatal cause of death (COD) by physicians and non-physicians. METHODS Training materials, case studies, and written and mock scenarios for this VA program were developed using conventional VA and ICD-10 guidelines. This program was used to instruct physicians and non-physicians in VA methodology using a train-the-trainer model. Written tests of cognitive and applied knowledge required to classify perinatal COD were administered before and after training to evaluate the effect of the VA training program. RESULTS Fifty-three physicians and non-physicians (nurse-midwives/nurses and Community Health Workers [CHW]) from Pakistan, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Guatemala were trained. Cognitive and applied knowledge mean scores among all trainees improved significantly (12.8 and 28.8% respectively, P < 0.001). Cognitive and applied knowledge post-training test scores of nurse-midwives/nurses were comparable to those of physicians. CHW (high-school graduates with 15 months or less formal health/nursing training) had the largest improvements in post-training applied knowledge with scores comparable to those of physicians and nurse-midwives/nurses. However, CHW cognitive knowledge post-training scores were significantly lower than those of physicians and nurses. CONCLUSIONS With appropriate training in VA, cognitive and applied knowledge required to determine perinatal COD is similar for physicians and nurses-midwives/nurses. This suggests that midwives and nurses may play a useful role in determining COD at the community level, which may be a practical way to improve the accuracy of COD data in rural, remote, geographic areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Engmann
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7596, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness of the World Health Organization (WHO) Essential Newborn Care (ENC) course in improving knowledge and skills of nurse midwives in low-risk delivery clinics in a developing country. METHODS The investigators identified the content specifications of the training material, developed both written and performance evaluations and administered the evaluations both before and after training clinical nurse midwives in Zambia. FINDINGS Based on these evaluations, both the knowledge and skills of the nurse midwives improved significantly following the course (from a mean of 65% correct pretraining to 84% correct post-training and from 65% to 77% correct on the performance and written evaluations, respectively). The ENC course written evaluation was validated and both tools allowed evaluation of the ENC course training. CONCLUSIONS We found significant improvements in trainees' knowledge and skills in essential newborn care following the WHO ENC course; however, lack of basic resources may have limited the application of the ENC guidelines. Implementation of the ENC course should be undertaken in consideration with the local conditions available for newborn care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E M McClure
- Research Triangle Institute, Durham, North Carolina 27709, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
McClure EM, Goldenberg RL, Brandes N, Darmstadt GL, Wright LL, Armbruster D, Biggar R, Carpenter J, Free MJ, Mattison D, Mathai M, Moss N, Mullany LC, Schrag S, Tielsch J, Tolosa J, Wall SN, Schuchat A, Smine A. The use of chlorhexidine to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity in low-resource settings. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2007; 97:89-94. [PMID: 17399714 PMCID: PMC2727736 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2007.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2006] [Revised: 01/29/2007] [Accepted: 01/31/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Of the 4 million neonatal deaths and 500,000 maternal deaths that occur annually worldwide, almost 99% are in developing countries and one-third are associated with infections. Implementation of proven interventions and targeted research on a select number of promising high-impact preventative and curative interventions are essential to achieve Millennium Development Goals for reduction of child and maternal mortality. Feasible, simple, low-cost interventions have the potential to significantly reduce the mortality and severe morbidity associated with infection in these settings. Studies of chlorhexidine in developing countries have focused on three primary uses: 1) intrapartum vaginal and neonatal wiping, 2) neonatal wiping alone, and 3) umbilical cord cleansing. A study of vaginal wiping and neonatal skin cleansing with chlorhexidine, conducted in Malawi in the 1990s suggested that chlorhexidine has potential to reduce neonatal infectious morbidity and mortality. A recent trial of cord cleansing conducted in Nepal also demonstrated benefit. Although studies have shown promise, widespread acceptance and implementation of chlorhexidine use has not yet occurred. This paper is derived in part from data presented at a conference on the use of chlorhexidine in developing countries and reviews the available evidence related to chlorhexidine use to reduce mortality and severe morbidity due to infections in mothers and neonates in low-resource settings. It also summarizes issues related to programmatic implementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E M McClure
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, RTI International, Durham, NC 27709, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
McClure EM, Goldenberg RL, Bann CM. Maternal mortality, stillbirth and measures of obstetric care in developing and developed countries. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2007; 96:139-46. [PMID: 17274999 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2006.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2006] [Revised: 10/13/2006] [Accepted: 10/25/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Maternal mortality and stillbirths are important adverse pregnancy outcomes, especially in developing countries. Because underlying causes of both outcomes appeared similar, the relationship between maternal mortality, stillbirth and three measures of obstetrical care were studied. METHODS Using data provided by the World Health Organization from 188 developed and developing countries, correlations and linear regression analyses between maternal mortality and stillbirth rates and cesarean section rates, skilled delivery attendance, and >or=4 prenatal visits) were developed. RESULTS Stillbirth and maternal mortality rates were strongly correlated, with about 5 stillbirths for each maternal death. However, the ratio increased from about 2 to 1 in least developed countries to 50 to 1 in the most developed countries. In developing countries, as the cesarean section rates increased from 0 to about 10%, both maternal mortality and stillbirth rates decreased sharply. Skilled delivery attendance was not associated with significant reductions in maternal mortality or stillbirth rates until coverage rates of about 40% were achieved. Four or more antenatal visits were not associated with significant reductions in maternal deaths until about 60% coverage was achieved. The same measure was associated with only modest decreases in stillbirth. CONCLUSION Across countries, stillbirth was significantly associated with maternal mortality. Both stillbirth and maternal mortality were similarly related to all three measures of obstetric care. An increase in cesarean section rates from 0 to 10% was associated with sharp decreases in both maternal mortality and stillbirths.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E M McClure
- Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
McClure EM, Nalubamba-Phiri M, Goldenberg RL. Stillbirth in developing countries. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2006; 94:82-90. [PMID: 16730726 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2006.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2006] [Revised: 03/23/2006] [Accepted: 03/29/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To conduct a systematic review of the literature on stillbirths in developing countries. METHOD Review of the English literature for all articles related to stillbirth in developing countries published from 1975 to 2005. RESULTS Because almost half of the deliveries in developing countries occur at home, under-reporting of stillbirths is a huge problem, and reliable data about rates and causes are difficult to obtain. Hospital stillbirth data are often subject to substantial bias and the ability to generalize from these data is unknown. Nevertheless, at least 4 million stillbirths occur yearly, the vast majority in developing countries, with rates in many developing countries ten-fold higher than elsewhere. Prolonged and obstructed labor, preeclampsia and various infections, all without adequate treatment, account for the majority of stillbirths. CONCLUSION Despite the large number of stillbirths worldwide, the topic of stillbirths in developing countries has received very little research, programmatic or policy attention. Better access to appropriate obstetric care, especially during labor, should reduce developing country stillbirth rates dramatically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E M McClure
- Statistics and Epidemiology, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Benkel DH, McClure EM, Woolard D, Rullan JV, Miller GB, Jenkins SR, Hershey JH, Benson RF, Pruckler JM, Brown EW, Kolczak MS, Hackler RL, Rouse BS, Breiman RF. Outbreak of Legionnaires' disease associated with a display whirlpool spa. Int J Epidemiol 2000; 29:1092-8. [PMID: 11101553 DOI: 10.1093/ije/29.6.1092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recognized outbreaks of Legionnaires' disease (LD) are rare; when they occur, they provide opportunities to understand the epidemiology of the illness and improve prevention strategies. We investigated a population-based outbreak. METHODS After the confirmation of LD in October 1996 in five people in neighbouring towns in southwest Virginia, active surveillance for additional cases was undertaken. A case-control study was conducted to identify exposures associated with illness, followed by a cohort study among employees of the facility at which the source of the outbreak was located in order to assess unrecognized exposure and illness. Samples of likely sources of LD in the facility were cultured for LEGIONELLA: RESULTS In all, 23 laboratory-confirmed cases of LD were eventually identified. Of the 15 cases in the case-control study, 14 (93%) reported visiting a home-improvement store, compared with 12 (27%) of 45 controls (matched odds ratio [MOR] = 23.3; 95% CI : 3-182). Among home-improvement centre patrons, 10 (77%) of 13 cases questioned recalled either visiting or walking by a display whirlpool spa, compared with 3 (25%) of 12 controls (MOR = 5.5; 95% CI : 0.7-256.0). Two cases' sputum isolates were an exact match, by monoclonal antibody subtyping and arbitrarily primed polymerase chain reaction, to a whirlpool spa filter isolate from the store. Employees reporting more exposure to the display spas were more likely to report symptoms of LD or to have an elevated titre. CONCLUSIONS This investigation shows that LD can be transmitted from a whirlpool spa used for display only, and highlights the need for minimizing the risk of transmission of LD from all water-filled spas. Key messages This paper describes an investigation of a population-based outbreak of Legionnaires' disease (LD). A case-control study first identified a home-improvement store as the likely source of the outbreak. An environmental investigation later confirmed that finding, as two cases' sputum isolates were an exact match, by monoclonal antibody subtyping and arbitrarily primed polymerase chain reaction, to a whirlpool spa filter isolate from the store. The spa was intended and used for display only.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D H Benkel
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Office of Epidemiology, Virginia Department of Health, Richmond, VA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Trevejo RT, Rigau-Pérez JG, Ashford DA, McClure EM, Jarquín-González C, Amador JJ, de los Reyes JO, Gonzalez A, Zaki SR, Shieh WJ, McLean RG, Nasci RS, Weyant RS, Bolin CA, Bragg SL, Perkins BA, Spiegel RA. Epidemic leptospirosis associated with pulmonary hemorrhage-Nicaragua, 1995. J Infect Dis 1998; 178:1457-63. [PMID: 9780268 DOI: 10.1086/314424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 258] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In October 1995, epidemic "hemorrhagic fever," without jaundice or renal manifestations, was reported in rural Nicaragua following heavy flooding; 2259 residents were evaluated for nonmalarial febrile illnesses (cumulative incidence, 6.1%) and 15 (0.7%) died with pulmonary hemorrhage. A case-control study found that case-patients were more likely than controls to have ever walked in creeks (matched odds ratio [MOR], 15.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7-132.3), have household rodents (MOR, 10.4; 95% CI, 1.1-97.1), or own dogs with titers >/=400 to Leptospira species (MOR, 23.4; 95% CI, 3.6-infinity). Twenty-six of 51 case-patients had serologic or postmortem evidence of acute leptospirosis. Leptospira species were isolated from case-patients and potential animal reservoirs. This leptospirosis epidemic likely resulted from exposure to flood waters contaminated by urine from infected animals, particularly dogs. Leptospirosis should be included in the differential diagnosis for nonmalarial febrile illness, particularly during periods of flooding or when pulmonary hemorrhage occurs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R T Trevejo
- Centers for Disease Control, Epidemiology Program Office, Managua, Nicaragua.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
McClure EM, Stack MR, Tanner T, Thevenin J, Gofstein RM, Helgerson SD. Pharyngeal culturing and reporting of pediatric gonorrhea in Connecticut. Pediatrics 1986; 78:509-10. [PMID: 3092179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
|