Abstract

Background: In the first week of life, neonate jaundice (NNJ) is a frequent reason for hospitalization and a major cause of newborn morbidity and mortality globally. It can cause long-term impairment and death in its most severe form. Inadequate family awareness and comprehension of this common neonatal problem can contribute to delays and complications. Consequently, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes regarding NNJ among women of reproductive age in AlAhsa, Saudi Arabia.
Methodology: Through an online survey, a descriptive observational cross-sectional research was conducted from May to August 2023 among mothers in AlAhsa, Saudi Arabia.
Results: The mean age of participants was 34.2 ± 12.9 years; 17.4% of them had good level of knowledge about NNJ and predominant sources of information from relatives (50%) and internet (36.4%). A statistically significant association was found between age of the mother 30-39 years old, having ≥ 4 children, being health care worker, the preferred way of treatment and level of knowledge of respondents about NNJ (P = 0.001).
Conclusion: To reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality, it is essential to increase awareness of neonatal jaundice among mothers at high risk and to develop a practical approach to this.

Key words: Neonatal jaundice, hyperbilirubinemia, Saudi Arabia.