DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjams.2026.v14i02.006

Pages: 137-143

Background: Neonatal morbidity and mortality remain major public health concerns in Bangladesh, particularly in tertiary care hospitals where complicated and referred cases are managed. Understanding the prevalence of common neonatal morbidities and outcome trends is essential for improving the quality of neonatal care. Objective: To assess the prevalence and outcome trends among neonates admitted to the neonatal unit of Chandpur Medical College Hospital. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted from June 2023 to May 2025 and included 750 admitted neonates. Data on demographic characteristics, perinatal factors, diagnoses, and treatment outcomes were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Results: More than half of the neonates were admitted within the first 24 hours of life (56.7%), and males constituted 53.6% of admissions. Prematurity/low birth weight (38.0%) was the most common morbidity, followed by birth asphyxia (26.4%) and neonatal sepsis (21.6%). Overall, 76.3% of neonates were discharged after improvement, while the in-hospital mortality rate was 12.9%. Mortality was highest among neonates with prematurity/low birth weight and sepsis. Trend analysis showed an improvement in discharge rates and a decline in mortality in recent years. Conclusion: Prematurity/low birth weight, birth asphyxia, and neonatal sepsis remain the predominant causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Continued strengthening of perinatal and neonatal care is essential to further improve outcomes in tertiary care settings.