Improved Pregnancy Outcomes in Refugees and Migrants on the Thai-Burmese Border
Author Information
Author(s): Carrara Verena I, Hogan Celia, De Pree Cecilia, Nosten Francois, McGready Rose
Primary Institution: Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Tak, Thailand
Hypothesis
Does maternal literacy impact birth outcomes among pregnant women in refugee and migrant camps?
Conclusion
Access to early diagnosis and treatment of malaria and delivery with skilled birth attendants significantly improved pregnancy outcomes despite low literacy rates.
Supporting Evidence
- 47% of women were able to read.
- Significant improvements in pregnancy outcomes were observed despite low literacy rates.
- Literate women were more likely to deliver in a health clinic.
- Access to malaria treatment was crucial for improving outcomes.
- Teenage pregnancies decreased over the study period.
- Low birth weight and premature births were significantly reduced.
Takeaway
Even though many pregnant women can't read, they can still have healthy babies if they get the right medical help.
Methodology
Three cross-sectional surveys were conducted to assess literacy rates and pregnancy outcomes among pregnant women in refugee and migrant camps.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported literacy and lack of systematic data on ethnic origin.
Limitations
No measure of socio-economic status was included, and the literacy assessment method may not have been ideal.
Participant Demographics
Participants included pregnant women from refugee camps and migrant populations, primarily of Karen ethnicity.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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