Risk factors of preterm birth in Sri Lanka: case-control study

Introduction: Preterm birth is a major challenge as contributor to neonatal and child mortality in low- middle-income countries (LMIC). Many toil prevent care for preterm babies. Country-specific solid data on risk factors of births are crucial formulate preventive strategies. Objectives: To determine the antenatal Sri Lanka Methods: An unmatched case-control study was conducted seven Government hospitals with obstetric facilities Colombo District Lanka. Live-born, spontaneous or provider-initiated, 374 babies (<37 & >24 weeks gestation) cases live-born term controls were recruited from mothers who had dating scan before 22 weeks. A factor profile worked out by extensive literature search consultation experts subjected multivariable analysis identify factors. Results: Risk identified were: multiple pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=10.57; 95% CI: 3.48, 32.08); bleeding/spotting during (aOR=3.51; 1.77, 6.98), past (aOR= 2.83; 1.09, 7.36), recent stressful life event (aOR=2.62; 1.43, 4.81), higher gravidity (aOR=2.58; 1.35, 4.9), dissatisfaction self-assessed own health (aOR=2.54; 1.52, 4.22), induced hypertension (aOR=2.25; 1.16, 4.38), no dental assessment (aOR=2.16; 1.23, 3.81), unsatisfactory oral hygiene (aOR=2.01; 1.33, 3.04), long standing hours 3rd trimester (aOR=1.91; 1.24, 2.94) cooking using firewood (aOR=1.51; 1.01, 2.25). Sexual abstinence (aOR=0.46; 0.26, 0.81) protective factor. Conclusions Recommendations: Modifiable unmodifiable identified. Special early admission recommended pregnancy, those spotting delivery. Avoiding stress emphasizing recommended.