Evaluating neonatal mortality in Malta compared with other EU countries: Exploring the influence of congenital anomalies and maternal risk factors.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Globally, 240,000 babies die in the neonatal period annually due to congenital anomalies (CA). Malta reports the highest neonatal mortality rate (NMR) among EU (European Union) Countries, constituting a public health concern.

Objectives

This study describes the contribution of CA to NMR in Malta, investigating possible associations with known maternal risk factors of maternal age, nationality, and education. Additionally, it provides an update on the contribution of CA to neonatal deaths in Malta and other EU countries.

Methods

Anonymous data for births and neonatal deaths were obtained for 2006-2020 from the National Obstetrics Information System (NOIS) in Malta. Regression analyses adjusting for maternal risk factors were run on this data to explore possi

SUBMITTER: Wilhelm M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11603760 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature