Factors associated with early neonatal death

Introduction: Early neonatal death is classified as the death of a newborn (NB) from 0 to 6 days after birth. In Brazil, in the year 2019, data show that 52.14% of infant deaths were attributed to early neonatal death. In this epidemiological scenario, the contribution of deaths in this age group to the infant mortality rate is evident. Therefore, the assessment of this problem is essential to improve the health care of pregnant women and reduce mortality rates. Methods: In this observational, cross-sectional, quantitative, descriptive, and retrospective study, data were obtained from the medical records of 42 children who were born in the reference hospital for Pediatrics and Neonatology of the microregion of São João del-Rei (MG), Brazil, in the years 2018, 2019, and 2020. The sample comprised a group of newborns who died early and a surviving control group for comparison. The statistical analysis of the data was carried out through descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Data analysis revealed that there was statistical significance for the variables weight at birth, gestational age, and APGAR<7 at the 5th minute of life. Conclusion: The analysis of the early neonatal mortality profile provides an adequate epidemiological basis that justifies effective and specific preventive measures in the area of maternal and child health.