Vulnerable Newborns: Disparities in Pediatric Emergency Department Admissions Between Refugee and Non-Refugee Newborns

Abstract

The conflicts that began in the Middle East and Syria in 2011 resulted in many people seeking refuge in neighboring countries. Due to irregular migration, many newborns were born far from their homelands, in foreign countries. This study aims to compare the clinical characteristics and outcomes of non-refugee and refugee newborns to assess potential disparities in their healthcare experiences. The present study examined the applications of newborns who were admitted to the third level pediatric emergency clinic on the Syrian border of Turkey between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. The most prevalent presenting complaint among both non-refugee and refugee newborns was jaundice, occurring in 23.9% and 21.4% of cases, respectively. Fast breathing was significantly more common in refugee newborns than in non-refugee newborns (11% vs 2.6%, P = .021). Poor feeding was significantly more prevalent among non-refugee newborns than among refugee newborns (9.8% vs 3.8%, P = .008). Additionally, 7.1% of non-refugee newborns had significant medical complications, compared to 25.2% of refugee newborns. This difference was statistically significant (P =.001). Despite the availability of universal, free healthcare at all levels for all newborns, refugee babies continue to utilize inferior healthcare facilities, resulting in elevated mortality rates. Consequently, addressing the health concerns of refugee newborns necessitates a comprehensive strategy. This strategy should encompass programs that bolster maternal and infant health, nutritional support, vaccination services, mental health services, and the provision of secure living environments.