Geographical variation in infant mortality, stillbirth and low birth weight in Northern Ireland, 1992-2002

Background Improving the health of expectant mothers and reductions in health inequalities, are repeatedly prioritised in policy reports in England and Northern Ireland. Measurement of underlying rates, and geographical variation in rates, of adverse birth outcomes are tools in monitoring these priorities. Methods Northern Ireland data on stillbirths, infant mortality and low birth weight (1992–2002) were linked to board (n=4), district council (n=26) and 1991 census wards (n=568). Underlying variations in rates were estimated at each geographical level, unadjusted and controlling for year, ward-level deprivation, settlement size and higher geographical levels. Impacts on geographical variation of individual social class, maternal age, multiple birth and smoking were assessed. Results There was significant variation in underlying rates of low birth weight (