Ethnic Variations in Severe Maternal Morbidity in the UK– A Case Control Study

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095086
• Publication Date: 2014-04-18T00:52:07Z
• Authors: Manisha Nair; Jennifer J. Kurin...; Marian Knight
• Keywords: Odds

Previous studies showed a higher risk of maternal morbidity amongst black and other minority ethnic (BME) groups, but were unable to investigate whether this excess was concentrated within specific BME groups in the UK. Our aim analyse risks reasons for any disparity.Unmatched case-control analysis using data from United Kingdom Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS), February 2005-January 2013. Cases 1,753 women who experienced severe during peripartum period. Controls 3,310 delivered immediately before cases same hospital. Multivariable logistic regression modelling used adjust known confounders understand their effects.Compared with white European women, odds 83% among African (adjusted ratio (aOR) = 1.83; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.39-2.40), 80% Caribbean (aOR 1.80; CI 1.14-2.82), 74% Bangladeshi 1.74; 1.05-2.88), 56% non-whites (non-Asian) 1.56; 1.05-2.33) 43% Pakistani 1.43; 1.07-1.92). There no evidence substantial confounding. Anaemia current pregnancy, previous pregnancy problems, inadequate utilisation antenatal care, pre-existing medical conditions, parity>3, being younger older independent factors but, did not differ by socioeconomic status, between smokers non-smokers or BMI.This national study demonstrates an increased backgrounds which could be explained morbidity.