Aim:To determine the pattern of presentation of prematurity in Warri Niger Delta.
Materials and Method: Retrieval and analysis of casenotes of all the premature babies seen between 2000 and 2007 at General Hospital Warri, a specialist hospital with referrals from surrounding General Hospitals, and GN Children's Clinic, the two major hospitals for children for Warri and its environs.
Results: Of the 639 babies seen, 249 were males and 390 females, giving a ration of 1: 1. 6. The youngest in gestational age was 20weeks and five days while the oldest was 36weeks. The lightest in weight was 600g while the heaviest was 2, 400g. Kangaroo nursing was introduced very early in the management. The weight on discharge ranged from 1200g to 2400g, with very good result. The average weight on discharge was 1500g. The overall mortality was 25. 3%, but was 85. 5% in those less than 28weeks of gestation. Mortality was also higher in males at 38. 6% to 16. 9% for females. Respiratory complications are the commonest cause of death, accounting for 30. 8% of the death rate.
Conclusion: Prematurity remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the newborn period in developing countries. Early maternal handling and introduction of cup and spoon feeding will reduce the time of hospital stay and also the cost of management.