Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcome of Immediate Post Natal Hypoglycemia in Newborns in Two Hospitals of Limbe Health District

Abstract

Background: Neonatal hypoglycemia is a major metabolic problem. Neonates who are born preterm, small or large for gestational age and neonates born to diabetic mothers are at greater risk and it may result to severe neurodevelopmental complications and death. The prevalence in the South-West Region is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, risk factors and outcome associated with immediate postnatal hypoglycemia in the Limbe health District. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out over a period of 4 months (4th December 2023-4th April 2024). Glycemic checks were done for the neonates born within the two hospitals in the Limbe Health District, 30 minutes after birth. Consent was gotten from the mothers of the neonates and questionnaires filled consisting of demographic data, antenatal and perinatal history. Data was entered into excel sheets and analysed using the SPSS version 26.0. Results: Amongst the 152 babies who were recruited, the prevalence of Immediate post-natal hypoglycemia was 24 (15.8%). Males and preterm were more prone to hypoglycemia. Positive risk factors to neonatal hypoglycemia were the preterm (AOR= 100.654 95% CI=11.168-907.135; p=0.000). The most common outcome of neonates with hypoglycemia in our study was decrease in physical activity occurring in about 50% of the neonates with hypoglycemia and a mortality rate of 1.3% was registered. Conclusion: The incidence of immediate post-natal hypoglycemia is high in our setting. The neonates at risk were the preterm babies. Male babies were more prone to hypoglycemia. The most common outcome was decrease in physical activity. Identifying risk groups, early diagnosis and prompt management will prevent and reduce complications of post-natal hypoglycemia in neonates.