MORTALITY PATTERN AT THE NATIONAL HOSPITAL: A HOSPITAL-BASED STUDY IN ABUJA, NIGERIA
Osunkwo D. A.*, Nwokeukwu H. I., Balogun M. S., Nguku P., Ajumobi O. and Sabitu K.
ABSTRACT
Background: Mortality is one of the indicators of disease burden of a population. The rates and numbers of people who die, where, at what age, and from what, is a vital input into policy making, planning interventions, and prioritizing research for new health technologies. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and causes of mortality at the National Hospital Abuja, Nigeria. Methods: Retrospective analysis of all deaths recorded at National Hospital, Abuja from 2009 to 2013, was conducted. Information obtained from the records included demography, ward and duration of hospital admission, and certified cause of death. Cause of death was coded according to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems. Results: There were 42,444 admissions and 2,149 (5.06%) deaths. Overall, 719(33.0%) were children under five years, 1179 (55%) were aged 15 – 64years while 181 (8%) were ≥65years. Males accounted for 58% (n = 1,241) deaths. The overall leading cause of death was the infections group which accounted for 22.2% (n = 476) deaths. HIV was the leading cause of death in both sexes (males: 15.9%, females: 16.9%). Other major causes were perinatal: 19.9% (n = 472), cancers: 13.1% (n = 281), trauma: 11.1% (n = 239) and cardiovascular diseases: 8.8% (n = 190). Conclusion: Most of the leading causes of mortality in this study are preventable. Strategies for improving prevention of diseases should be defined and implemented.
Keywords: Mortality, Pattern, Hospital, Nigeria.
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