COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PRETERM BIRTH RATES IN KARAKALPAKSTAN AND RURAL REGIONS

Аннотация

Preterm birth remains a significant global health challenge, contributing substantially to neonatal mortality and morbidity. This study undertakes a comparative analysis of preterm birth rates in the autonomous Republic of Karakalpakstan and general rural areas of Uzbekistan. The research aims to identify disparities, explore contributing factors, and propose targeted interventions to improvematernal andchild health outcomes. Utilizing amixed-methods approach, data from healthcare facilities and demographic surveys were analyzed. Preliminary findings suggest higher rates of preterm birth in Karakalpakstan, potentially linked to unique environmental, socioeconomic, and healthcare access challenges. Understanding these regional differences is crucial for developing evidence-based strategies to reduce the burden of prematurity. Keywords:Preterm birth,Karakalpakstan, rural health, neonatal health, comparative analysis.