Examining the Causes of Neonatal Mortalities in the Tamale Metropolis

Abstract

Background: Neonatal Mortality is the death of a child within the first 28 days of life. It accounts for most of the under-five deaths but has not been given serious attention by academics, especially in the Tamale Metropolitan area. As a result, very little is known about its cause and the calibre of women most affected. Aim: This study focuses on cause of neonatal mortality in the three major hospitals in Tamale. Materials and Methods: The study involved 282 women who have suffered from neonatal deaths using hospital records to identify them. The study also includes 21 health workers from these facilities. Data was collected using interviews and questionnaires and review of records. Results: The study found that from 2012 to 2016 there has been a downward trend in both neonatal deaths and neonatal death rate. This trend was observed in all three major hospitals. The study found that the majority (70.8%) of women had normal gestational periods, while nearly 50% (49.7%) of the babies cried immediately after birth. Conclusion: The study concludes that improved medical health care services, encouraging regular attendance of antenatal clinics and improving the mothers’ diet could be responsible for the decrease.