FREQUENCY OF HYPOGLYCEMIA IN NEWBORN WITH BIRTH ASPHYXIA

Abstract

Birth asphyxia is a significant health concern in Pakistan, often leading to severe complications that contribute to long-term morbidity and mortality in neonates. Understanding the frequency and associated factors of hypoglycemia, a common complication in neonates with birth asphyxia, is crucial for improving neonatal care and outcomes. This study aimed to determine the frequency of hypoglycemia in neonates with birth asphyxia and to explore its association with residential and socioeconomic status. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Pediatric Unit C, MTI Lady Reading Hospital (LRH), Peshawar, from April 27th, 2019 to October 26th, 2019. The study received approval from the hospital's ethical committee. Using a non-probability sampling technique, 141 neonates, aged up to 72 hours and diagnosed with birth asphyxia, were enrolled. The frequency of hypoglycemia among these neonates was observed and recorded. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 23. The study findings revealed a significant association between hypoglycemia and both residential and socioeconomic status in neonates with birth asphyxia. Notably, hypoglycemia was more prevalent in neonates from rural areas and those belonging to lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Hypoglycemia is a common complication in neonates with birth asphyxia, with a higher incidence observed in rural areas and among lower socioeconomic groups. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions and enhanced neonatal care strategies, particularly in underserved communities, to mitigate the risks associated with birth asphyxia and its subsequent complications. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence on neonatal health in developing countries and highlights the critical need for addressing healthcare disparities in these settings.