The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #51333

Shea Rutstein, PhD, Measure DHS, ORC Macro, 11785 Beltsville Drive, Calverton, MD 20705, 301-572-0950, rutstein@macroint.com

Using data from the Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in less developed countries around the world, the paper presents the effects of various intervals of time between births on stillbirths, early neonatal, late neonatal and perinatal periods. The study controls for the effects of other birth related factors such as maternal age, parity, sex of child, and prior mortality experience, as well as for the effects of social and economic conditions and the use of health services. Size at birth and birth weight are also studied as outcomes. The distribution of birth intervals is presented as well as the desired time between births. The effect of the interaction of type of birth attendant and household economic position on neonatal mortality is also studied. Finally, the paper concludes with estimates of the number of deaths that could be avoided with optimal birth spacing in a number of countries.

Learning Objectives:

• • Optimal intervals between births for increased newborn survival.
  • A better understanding of the needs of patients for information and services to ensure optimal birth spacing.
  • A better understanding of the role of physicians in the reduction of new born mortality in low income countries.

Keywords: Perinatal Outcomes, Birth Outcomes

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.