Global burden of neonatal preterm birth: A systematic analysis for the global burden of disease study 2019

Abstract

Objectives

Addressing the research gap on neonatal preterm birth's global impact, this study aims to present a detailed analysis of its incidence and mortality rates from 1990 to 2019, capturing the disease burden's evolution during this timeframe.

Methods

We analyzed Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 data across 204 countries to assess age-standardized incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs for neonatal preterm birth from 1990 to 2019, along with EPAC and risk factors.

Results

From 1990 to 2019, EPAC for neonatal death at 0–6 days was −1.75 %, and DALYs was −1.75 %. For deaths under 5 years, EPAC was −2.23 %, and DALYs was −2.19 %. Key risk factors for neonatal preterm birth DALYs included low birth weight, gestational age, ambient air pollution, and household pollution from solid fuels.

Conclusions

Preterm birth notably increases neonatal risks at 0–6 days and under 5 years. Our study shows diseased disease burdens in these periods. Preventive strategies, such as reducing household and ambient air pollution, are crucial for preterm birth reduction. Tailored regional interventions are essential.