Abstract

Birth asphyxia is a significant cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality globally, especially in low-resource settings like Cameroon. This study investigates the prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes of birth asphyxia among neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Buea Regional Hospital. Understanding these elements is essential to inform clinical strategies and improve neonatal health outcomes. The study employs a retrospective cross-sectional design, examining medical records of neonates admitted to the NICU over a 12-month period, focusing on cases diagnosed with birth asphyxia.

Data collection included neonatal birth records, maternal health history, birth process details, Apgar scores, and NICU interventions. Statistical analysis identified key risk factors associated with birth asphyxia, including maternal age, delivery complications, preterm birth, and lack of access to skilled birth attendants. Findings show that the prevalence of birth asphyxia in the NICU was 18%, with higher rates observed in neonates born to mothers with prolonged labor or inadequate prenatal care.

Several risk factors emerged as significant predictors of birth asphyxia. Prolonged labor, maternal hypertension, and preterm delivery were prominent, with preterm neonates showing an increased risk of asphyxia and related complications. The study also examined neonatal outcomes, revealing that 25% of asphyxiated neonates experienced severe complications such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, while 15% required extended NICU stays due to organ dysfunction. Mortality associated with birth asphyxia was 12%, emphasizing the critical need for preventive interventions.

The study highlights the necessity for improved prenatal care and skilled birth attendance to reduce birth asphyxia rates. Early recognition of at-risk pregnancies and timely intervention during labor could significantly reduce asphyxia occurrences. Recommendations include enhancing maternal health services, strengthening prenatal education, and increasing access to emergency obstetric care. Improved clinical training on neonatal resuscitation and resource allocation in the NICU may also contribute to reducing the adverse outcomes of birth asphyxia.

Keywords: Birth asphyxia, neonatal morbidity, risk factors, neonatal intensive care unit, Buea Regional Hospital, neonatal mortality, Cameroon.