Socioeconomic Inequalities in High-Risk Fertility Behaviors in Ethiopia
Author Information
Author(s): Asresie Melash Belachew, Ekholuenetale Michael, Ahmed Kedir Y., Mistry Sabuj Kanti, Chandio Navira, Agho Kingsley, Fekadu Gedefaw Abeje, Arora Amit
Primary Institution: Department of Reproductive Health and Population Studies, School of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
Hypothesis
This study aimed to examine changes in socioeconomic-related inequality in high-risk fertility behaviors (HRFB) and its contributing factors over time.
Conclusion
The study found that socioeconomic disparities in high-risk fertility behaviors among women in Ethiopia have widened from 2005 to 2019.
Supporting Evidence
- The concentration curve for HRFB remained above the equality line, indicating a disproportionate concentration among socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals.
- In 2019, educational status and place of birth were significant contributors to HRFB inequality.
- Contraceptive use and wealth index emerged as additional factors explaining HRFB inequality in 2019.
- The pro-poor ECI widened from -0.0682 in 2005 to -0.2634 in 2019.
- Women with no formal education experienced a higher prevalence of HRFB compared to those with higher education.
- Home births were more common among women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, contributing to HRFB.
- Disparities in HRFB were observed across different regions and religious groups in Ethiopia.
- Future interventions should prioritize women with low or no formal education and those who do not use contraceptives.
Takeaway
The study shows that women from poorer backgrounds are more likely to have risky pregnancies, and this problem has gotten worse over time.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from the 2005 and 2019 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Surveys, using Erreygers Concentration index and decomposition analysis.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may lead to subjective bias in assessing socioeconomic status and high-risk fertility behaviors.
Limitations
The study's reliance on self-reported data may introduce bias, and some important variables were not included in the analysis.
Participant Demographics
The study included women aged 15 to 49 years who had given birth within the last five years, with a focus on socioeconomic status.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: -0.3365, -0.1903
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website