Abstract
Background
Neonatal Jaundice (NNJ) is one of the major contributors of neonatal mortality worldwide with Sub-Saharan African being one of the greatest contributors. As a result, it is considered a public health concern. The long-term effects of NNJ can be dire, however, these can be minimised or prevented through appropriate screening and treatment. This study examined the prevalence and factors associated with NNJ in Northern Ghana.
Methods
This study used a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional study design to select 330 mothers and their neonates who were on admission in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units of four referral hospitals at the time of the study. Both descriptive and inferential data analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics software (version 26).
Results
Out of the total number of 330 neonates included in the study, 33.3% of them were diagnosed of NNJ. Factors such as antenatal attendance, mothers having a previous baby diagnosed with NNJ, delivery mode, parity and maternal blood group were strongly related to a neonate being diagnosed od NNJ
Conclusion
This study revealed that the prevalence of NNJ in Northern Ghana is 33.3%. The study has revealed the risk factors for NNJ. It is therefore important that health practitioners take into consideration these risk factors and the planning of maternal and child health care services.