PREVALENCE OF PRETERM BIRTH AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG WOMEN WHO GAVE BIRTH IN HEALTH FACILITIES IN GAROWE, PUNTLAND, SOMALIA

Abstract

Background: Preterm birth is a major cause of death and a significant cause of long-term loss of human potential amongst survivors all around the world. Approximately 15 million babies are born preterm annually worldwide, indicating a global preterm birth rate of about 11%. Almost 50% (~7.4 million) of the total preterm births worldwide occur in the following countries: The United States, India, China, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Nigeria (Walani, 2020). there are limited studies on the magnitude and factors associated with preterm births in Puntland, Somalia. Objective: To assess the prevalence of preterm births and associated factors in healthy facilities in Garowe, Puntland, Somalia, from April 1 to May 1, 2022. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted selected healthy facilities in Garowe City. Study participants were enrolled through a convenience sampling technique until the total sample size was reached. Data were gathered by using structured questionnaires. Data was entered in EpiData 4.6 and analyzed using STATA 14.1. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were used to identify factors associated with preterm birth. A p-value of < 0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression analysis was considered a cut-off for significant association. Results: Of a total of 422 women who participated in the study, 419(99%) participated in the study. 46 (11 %) (95% 7-13) were preterm births. Number of fetuses (AOR=5.79; 95 CI: 1.71, 19.5), history of preterm birth (AOR = 6.37; 95% CI: 2.64–15.36), Premature rupture of membrane ( AOR = 10.76; 95% CI: 3.97–29.15), and low birth weight (AOR=7.78; 95 CI: 3.33, 18.17) were significantly associated with preterm births. Conclusion: The prevalence of preterm birth in this study was high, and associated factors, including the number of fetuses, the history of preterm birth, premature rupture of membranes, and birth weight (grams) of the mothers and fetus, were significantly and positively associated with the mothers and their fetus for selected healthy facilities at Garowe. Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are forwarded. Early screening and counseling programs should be developed for the early prevention of preterm birth. Such as recognize signs of premature rupture of the membrane: be aware of the signs of preterm labor. Treating infections promptly and practicing good hygiene can help prevent infections that might lead to premature rupture of the membrane.