Factors Affecting Maternal and Neonatal Mortality in Northern Nigeria: A Multiple Linear Regression Analysis

Nigeria has a maternal mortality rate (MMR) of 512 deaths per 100,000 live births, an estimate which indicates that maternal deaths are responsible for about a third of all deaths among women of reproductive age. The regional distribution of neonatal deaths in Nigeria showed that the North East region had the highest neonatal deaths. This study provides insight into identified factors and their influence on maternal and neonatal mortalities. Targeted policy implementation will emerge from the analysis of these factors with the aim of reducing the mortalities which will invariably contribute to the reduction of the global maternal and newborn mortality index Multiple linear regression analyses using secondary time series data from the district health information system (DHIS2) for the period 2012-2021. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were also used to examine a series of predictor variables to determine those that best predict the outcome variables. Statistical significance for all regressions performed was determined at p{square}<{square}0.05. Regression results showed a negative relationship between antenatal care and neonatal mortality implying that an increase in the number of women attending ANC will lead to a reduction in neonatal mortality by about 43%. The regression result showed a positive relationship between low birth weight and neonatal mortality implying that an increase in the number of live births with low birth weight will lead to an increase in neonatal mortality by 94%. Regression analysis on factors affecting maternal mortality showed that 4th antenatal care visits and above, health facility delivery, postnatal care within 3 days for mothers, and skilled birth attendance all have a negative relationship with maternal mortality. The regression results are all statistically significant (p<0.05). The study revealed significant relationships between some factors (antenatal care, low birth weight, skilled birth attendants, health facility delivery, post-natal care for both mother and newborn) affecting maternal and neonatal mortality.