Neonatal Tetanus in Turkey: Changes Over the Last Decade
Author Information
Author(s): Bunyamin Dikici, Hakan Uzun, Ebru Yilmaz-Keskin, Taskin Tas, Ali Gunes, Halil Kocamaz, Capan Konca, Mehmet A Tas
Primary Institution: Duzce University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the characteristics and outcomes of infants diagnosed with neonatal tetanus in Turkey over the past decade?
Conclusion
The incidence of neonatal tetanus cases has decreased significantly in recent years, but continued efforts in health education and immunization are necessary to eliminate the disease.
Supporting Evidence
- 55 cases of neonatal tetanus were hospitalized between 1991 and 1996, while only 12 cases were documented from 1996 to 2006.
- 41.8% of the infants diagnosed with neonatal tetanus died during follow-up.
- Lower birth weight and younger age at symptom onset were associated with higher mortality rates.
Takeaway
Neonatal tetanus is a serious disease that can be prevented with proper hygiene and vaccinations for mothers, and fewer cases are being seen now than in the past.
Methodology
The study reviewed clinical charts of 67 infants diagnosed with neonatal tetanus, analyzing their epidemiological and clinical findings.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in presentation and care-seeking behavior may affect the results.
Limitations
The study lacks a control group and may have biases related to gender in care-seeking behavior.
Participant Demographics
All infants were from rural areas and delivered by untrained traditional birth attendants.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.014
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.730–16.165
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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