Introduction: Neonatal mortality remains a major public health problem worldwide. A World Health Organization report indicates that 4 million children die before their first month of life. In Africa, an analysis has shown that perinatal mortality rates range from 66 to 124 per 1000 live births. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the perinatal mortality rate remains high, estimated at 32 per 1000 live births. The objective of this study Identify the factors associated with perinatal deaths among births with complications in Kasai Province. Methods: This was a mixed-methods study, combining quantitative and analytical approaches. A case-control analytical design was complemented by a phenomenological design. The study was conducted in Kasai Province from 2022 to 2024 and included 798 records of newborns who experienced birth complications. Results: Among newborns who experienced birth complications, 33.3% died, reflecting a high obstetric mortality rate, even though DPS reports indicate a perinatal mortality rate of 2 deaths per 1000 live births. Factors associated with these deaths were living in a rural area, prematurity, lack of antenatal care visits, low birth weight, and male sex (p < 0.05). Neonatal sepsis, asphyxia, and dystocia were also contributing factors (p < 0.05). Responsibility for perinatal deaths was shared among the community, healthcare facility administration, and healthcare providers. Conclusion: Perinatal mortality remains high in the DRC, particularly in Kasai Province. The observed perinatal deaths are linked to largely preventable factors and involve multiple responsibilities. An integrated approach, taking into account community, institutional, and professional dimensions, is essential for a lasting reduction in perinatal mortality.
Cite this paper
Cé, Mamba, L. , Mukendi, R. , Mawaw, P. M. , Mpoyi, T. I. , José, Kalenga, P. M. , Much’, B. M. , apa, Kandolo, S. I. and Tambwe, A. M. (2026). Determinants of Perinatal Deaths among Births with Complications in Kasai Province from 2022 to 2024. Open Access Library Journal, 13, e15847. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4236/oalib.1115847.
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