Neonatal Death Related to Older Sibling Birth Weight
Newborn siblings who weigh at least one pound less than their older biological siblings
are twice more likely to die within their first month, according to a new finding
from a study co-authored by Maya Tabet, Ph.D., adjunct professor of epidemiology at
the Saint Louis University College for Public Health and Social Justice.
Tabet, who conducted the research as part of her Ph.D. dissertation for the College, recently shared the results of her study with St. Louis Public Radio.
Babies are most vulnerable during the first 28 days of life. Per the World Health Organization, the three major causes of neonatal deaths are infections (36 percent), pre-term (28 percent), and birth asphyxia (23 percent).
Tabet's research indicates another factor in neonatal death be considered.
According to Tabet's findings, when siblings are similar in size at birth, their risk of mortality is low. However, the lower their birth weight, compared to their older sibling(s), the greater their mortality risk.
The population-based study will be published by the American Journal of Perinatology. To read and listen to the entire interview with St. Louis Public Radio, visit https://lnkd.in/gWvNJPM.
About the College for Public Health and Social Justice
The Saint Louis University College for Public Health and Social Justice is the only academic unit of its kind, studying social, environmental and physical influences that together determine the health and well-being of people and communities.
It also is the only accredited school or college of public health among nearly 250 Catholic institutions of higher education in the United States. Guided by a mission of social justice and focus on finding innovative and collaborative solutions for complex health problems, the College offers nationally recognized programs in public health, social work, health administration, applied behavior analysis, criminology and criminal justice, and urban planning and development.