Preterm birth and stillbirth rates associated with socioeconomic disparities during COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Conflicting evidence exists on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on preterm birth (PTB) and stillbirth rates. We aimed to evaluate changes in PTB and stillbirth rates before and during the pandemic period and assess the potential effect modification of socioeconomic status (SES).

Methods

Using the linked administrative health databases from Manitoba, Canada, we conducted a cross-sectional study among all pregnant women, comparing 3.5 years pre-pandemic (1 October 2016 to 29 February 2020) to the first year of the pandemic (1 March 2020 to 31 March 2021). We used generalised linear models to assess the quarterly rates of PTB (<37 weeks) and stillbirths. We calculated the predicted trends based on pre-pandemic period data. Finally, we evaluated the PT

SUBMITTER: Aboulatta L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9943698 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature