Effect of Kangaroo Mother Care on neonatal outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Preterm birth and low birth weight are major causes of illness and death in newborn babies, especially in developing countries. Kangaroo mother care (KMC) is a simple and low-cost method that includes skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby, support for breastfeeding, and early discharge from the hospital. Although many studies suggest the benefits of KMC, the results are not always consistent, so a combined analysis is needed. This study aimed to review and combine results from different studies to understand how KMC affects newborn outcomes such as survival, body temperature, breathing problems, breastfeeding, weight gain, and hospital stay. We searched for published studies that compared KMC with routine newborn care. Both randomized and observational studies were included. Data were analyzed using the Review Manager 5.0 software. We calculated overall results using statistical methods based on how similar or different the studies were. Study selection followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A total of eight studies were included. KMC significantly reduced newborn deaths, risk of hypothermia (low-body temperature), and apnea (breathing pauses). Babies receiving KMC were more likely to be exclusively breastfed at discharge. They also gained more weight daily and had a slightly shorter hospital stay compared to those receiving conventional care. KMC improves survival, reduces complications, supports breastfeeding, helps babies grow better, and reduces hospital stay. It should be widely used, especially in settings with limited resources.