Pathways of the determinants of unfavourable birth outcomes in Kenya

Diamond, Ian; Madise, Nyovani; Smith, Peter; Magadi, Monica

Abstract

This paper explores the pathways of the determinants of unfavourable birth outcomes, such as premature birth, the size of the baby at birth, and Caesarean section deliveries, in Kenya using graphical log-linear chain models. The results show that a number of factors that do not have direct associations with unfavourable birth outcomes contribute to these outcomes indirectly through intermediate factors. Marital status, the desirability of a pregnancy, the use of family planning and access to health facilities have no direct associations with poor birth outcomes, such as premature births and the small size of the baby at birth, but are linked to these outcomes through antenatal care. Antenatal care is identified as a central link between various sociodemographic or reproductive factors and birth outcomes.

Citation

Diamond, I., Madise, N., Smith, P., & Magadi, M. (2004). Pathways of the determinants of unfavourable birth outcomes in Kenya. Journal of biosocial science, 36(2), 153-176. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0021932003006163

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Mar 1, 2004
• Online Publication Date: Feb 17, 2004
• Publication Date: Mar 1, 2004
• Journal: JOURNAL OF BIOSOCIAL SCIENCE
• Print ISSN: 0021-9320
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 36
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 153-176
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/s0021932003006163
• Keywords: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health; General Social Sciences
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/417702