Short birth interval prevalence, determinants and effects on maternal and child health outcomes in Asia-Pacific region: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol

Abstract

Background Short birth interval (SBI) has been linked to an increased risk of adverse maternal, perinatal, infant and child health outcomes. However, the prevalence and maternal and child health impacts of SBI in the Asia-Pacific region have not been well understood. This study aims to identify and summarise the existing evidence on SBI including its definition, measurement prevalence, determinants and association with adverse maternal and child health outcomes in the Asia-Pacific region. Methods Five databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Maternity and Infant Care, and Web of Science (WoS)) will be systematically searched from September 2000 up to May 2023. Data will be extracted, charted, synthesised and summarised based on the outcomes measured, and where appropriate, meta-analysis will be performed. The risk of bias will be assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute quality appraisal. Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework will be used to evaluate the quality of cumulative evidence from the included studies. Ethics and dissemination This review does not require ethics approval. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, policy briefs and conference presentations. PROSPERO registration number A protocol will be registered on PROSPERO for each separate outcome before performing the review. Cite Now