Mortality and risk factors of small vulnerable newborns in 32 low- and middle-income countries.

ABSTRACT:

Background

In 2022, 2.3 million neonatal deaths occurred globally, the majority of which were in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Preterm birth, small for gestational age (SGA), and low birth weight (LBW) are leading causes of neonatal mortality. The Small Vulnerable Newborn (SVN) framework was introduced to unify preterm birth, SGA, and LBW under a single concept. SVNs face significant mortality risks and are predominantly found in LMICs. Understanding the prevalence, mortality risks, and associated factors of SVNs is essential for targeted intervention efforts.

Methods

This study analyzed nationally representative survey data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHSs) conducted between 2008 and 2022 in 32 LMICs, covering 197,405 weighted live births among moth

SUBMITTER: Huang Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12522232 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature