Maternal and neonatal factors associated with neonatal jaundice in Jordan: a case-control study

Background/Aims: Neonatal jaundice is a common cause of hospitalisation. This study aimed to identify maternal and neonatal factors associated with neonatal jaundice among hospitalised neonates in north Jordan. 

Methods: This was a case control study involving 312 mothers and their neonates (106 cases, 206 controls), recruited from two governmental hospitals in north Jordan.A structured interview was used to collect data. Neonatal medical records were accessed for clinical data. 

Results: Maternal factors associated with higher risk of jaundice included having higher education, being employed and having had a caesarean section. Neonatal factors associated with higher risk of jaundice included being preterm, receiving <5 feeds per day and having ABO incompatibility. 

Conclusions: Using evidence-based guidelines for the assessment and management of risk factors helps to reduce the prevalence of jaundice requiring hospitalisation among neonates. Raising mothers' awareness of neonatal jaundice through interventions and education sessions during antenatal care, in particular for high-risk mothers, is also likely to help reduce its prevalence.