Neonatal sepsis and its associated factors in East Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract
Objectives This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to reveal the magnitude of neonatal sepsis and its associated
factors in East Africa.
Methods Using PRISMA guideline, we reviewed and meta-analyzed studies from Google Scholar, Cochrane library, and
PubMed; last search date: October 15, 2019. Heterogeneity across the studies was estimated. The subgroup analysis was
done. Publication bias was also assessed.
Results A total of 26 studies with 11,239 participants are included. The pooled prevalence of neonatal sepsis in East Africa
was 29.765% (95% CI 23.36–35.94). Home delivery (AOR = 2.67; 95% CI 1.15–4.00), maternal history of urinary tract
infection (UTI) (AOR = 2.083; 95% CI 0.24–3.93), gestational age/(preterm) (AOR = 1.56; 95% CI 1.04–2.08), prolonged
labor (AOR = 3.23; 95% CI 0.04–6.51) and PROM (AOR = 1.95; 95% CI 0.53–3.37) were identified associated factors of
neonatal sepsis.
Conclusions The prevalence of neonatal sepsis in East Africa remains high. The relevant stockholders should give attention
for neonates delivered from women with intranatal fever to prevent neonatal sepsis. Pregnant women should be screened
for UTI. Appropriate interventions should be put in place to manage PROM to decrease the chance of ascending
microorganisms.