Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Mental Health Impact on BAME Populations with Preterm Birth

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundPreterm birth (PTB) is one of the main causes of neonatal deaths globally, with approximately 15 million infants are born preterm. Therefore, the mental health (MH) impact experienced by mothers experiencing a PTB is important, especially within the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) populations.AimThe aims of the study were to determine the prevalence of MH conditions among BAME women with PTB as well as the MH assessments used to characterise the MH outcomes.MethodsA systematic methodology was developed and published as a protocol in PROSPERO (CRD42020210863). Multiple databases were used to extract relevant data. I2 and Egger’s tests were used to detect the heterogeneity and publication bias. A Trim and fill method was used to demonstrate the influence of publication bias and the credibility of conclusions.ResultsThirty-nine studies met the eligibility criteria from a possible 3526. The prevalence rates of depression among PTB-BAME mothers were significantly higher than full-term mothers with a standard median deviation (SMD) of 1.5 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) 29-74%. The subgroup analysis indicated, depressive symptoms to be time sensitive. Women within the very PTB category demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence of depression than those categorised as non-very PTB. The prevalence rates of anxiety and stress among PTB-BAME mothers were significantly higher than full-term mothers (OR of 88% and 60% with a CI of 42%-149% and 24-106%, respectively).ConclusionBAME women with PTB suffers with MH conditions. Many studies did not report on BAME population specific MH outcomes. Therefore, the impact of PTB is not accurately represented in this population, and thus could negatively influence the quality of maternity services.Core TipThis study demonstrates the mental health impact due to preterm birth among the Black, Asian and Ethnic minority women. There is minimal research available at present around this subject matter, and potential disease sequalae.