Neonatal Jaundice Cases Attending at a Selected Tertiary Level Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Abstract
Neonatal jaundice, a prevalent condition among newborns, affects up to 60% of term and 80% of preterm infants globally. It poses a significant health risk, especially in low-resource settings like Bangladesh, due to its potential progression to severe neurological complications such as kernicterus. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical types, risk factors, and socio-demographic determinants of neonatal jaundice at a tertiary hospital in Dhaka. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka Cantonment, involving 101 neonates (0–28 days old) admitted with jaundice. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and hospital records, using purposive sampling. Variables assessed included neonatal age, sex, gestational age, mode of delivery, feeding patterns, maternal medication history, and Rh compatibility. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0, with both descriptive and inferential statistics applied. Among 101 respondents, most were young (47.5%) Muslim (85.1%) housewives (67.3%) with HSC-level education (40.6%) and modest income (46.5%). Most lived in buildings (64.4%). Neonatal jaundice appeared early (within 2 days) in 55.4% of cases, affected more males (66.3%), and was linked to Rh incompatibility (83.2% of neonates were Rh-negative vs. 83.2% of mothers’ Rh-positive), birth trauma (29.7%), and Caesarean delivery (59.4%). Nearly half had pathological jaundice, often with sepsis (39.6%) or congenital anomalies (19.8%). Maternal age (p<0.01), early onset (p=.04), birth weight (p=.00), and morbidity status (p=0.02) were significantly associated with jaundice type. Neonatal jaundice remains a significant cause of morbidity in Dhaka. The findings emphasize the need for early screening, especially for Rh incompatibility and sepsis. Strengthening institutional delivery practices and parental education can aid in timely diagnosis and intervention, reducing preventable complications.
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References
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