Predictors of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in a refugee population from an active conflict country, Syria

Abstract

Objective: To elucidate predictors of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in refugees emigrating from an active conflict region (Syria). Materials and Methods: This study included Syrian pregnant women who gave birth in Etlik Zübeyde Hanım Training and Research Hospital between 2013 and 2016. Adverse perinatal outcomes were defined as preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, early membrane rupture, intrauterine growth retardation, hypertension, perinatal excites, and erythrocyte-transfused cases. Factors associated with those adverse outcomes were assessed using multiple logistic regression analysis. Results: Having an active smoking habit [odds ratio (OR): 2.647, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.767-3.965; p<0.001], obesity (OR: 2.272, 95% CI: 1.396-3.699; p=0.001), and adolescent age (OR: 1.732, 95% CI: 1.204-2.491; p=0.003) were found to be the most important predictors of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. Eighty of 129 (62%) smokers, 45 of 81 (55.65%) obese individuals, and 91 of 169 adolescents (53.8%) had adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. Conclusion: Prevention strategies for obesity, smoking, and adolescent pregnancies should be implemented primarily to reduce maternal and antenatal adverse outcomes. Pregnant women with these risk factors in a refugee community emigrating from a conflict-zone nation should be followed up closely.