International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Volume 62, Issue 3, 1998, Pages 223-227

Obstetric outcome of immigrants from mainland China in Hong Kong (Article)

Leung T.N.* , Lau T.K. , Roach V.J. , Wilson D. , Rogers M.S. , Chang A.M.Z.
  • a Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prnc. Wales Hosp., Chinese Univ. of, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
  • b Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prnc. Wales Hosp., Chinese Univ. of, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
  • c Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prnc. Wales Hosp., Chinese Univ. of, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
  • d Faculty of Medicine, University of, Sydney, NSW, Australia
  • e Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prnc. Wales Hosp., Chinese Univ. of, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
  • f Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Prnc. Wales Hosp., Chinese Univ. of, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Abstract

Objective: To compare obstetric outcomes in two socio-economically distinct populations; illegal immigrants, who travelled across the Chinese border near term to deliver in Hong Kong between 1994 and 1996, and local Hong Kong residents. Methods: We identified two obstetric populations in our hospital with distinct social characteristics and patterns of antenatal care. A retrospective study of pregnancy outcome was conducted in these women. Results: When compared with Hong Kong residents, the illegal immigrants had a significantly lower incidence of antenatal complications, a lower requirement for obstetric intervention, and comparable obstetric outcome with the exception of a higher rate of delivery before arrival at hospital. Conclusion. Our findings were in contrast to previous reports, and contrary to our expectations. Obstetric outcome is multifactorial and previous assumptions about unbooked or socially disadvantaged patients should be re-evaluated.

Author Keywords

Outcome Socio-economic status obstetrics

Index Keywords

controlled study female priority journal immigrant normal human Hong Kong socioeconomics Chinese retrospective study prenatal care Incidence Article pregnancy complication human adult
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-0031710827&doi=10.1016%2fS0020-7292%2898%2900100-3&partnerID=40&md5=a3a11fb983f26f482807268199c5db19
DOI: 10.1016/S0020-7292(98)00100-3
ISSN: 00207292
Original Language: English