Preterm Birth in Georgia. Analysis Based on the Data of “Georgian Birth Registry”

Abstract

Introduction: Preterm birth is the main cause for illness and death and is a global issue for public health. In spite of acute need, effective guidelines on assessing risks for preterm birth and prevention of associated complications are still not in place. Regardless of the improved quality of prenatal care, prevalence of preterm birth among liveborn babies in 2019 is quite high in Georgia (8.1%) compared to other countries. Guidelines for preventive methods and management for Georgian population are based on non-Georgian experience, due to lack of national population research.

The Goal: The goal of the study was to explore potential risk-groups for preterm birth in Georgia using descriptive and correlation analysis and based on results generated, develop recommendations for preventive actions considering country context and specifics.

Method: For the purposes of the study, 2018 data of „Electronic Module for Oversight of Pregnant Women and Newborns“ was processed statistically, which provides first-hand possibility for continuous monitoring of pregnant women throughout Georgia all the way from the first antenatal visit to delivery outcome. Data was processed using SPSS and descriptive and correlation analysis was conducted for pregnancy/delivery of one and more fetus.

Result: Results show that risk factors for preterm birth in Georgia have certain specifics. Therefore, it is important to take such specifics into account while planning interventions.