Predictors of Adolescent Pregnancy in Northeast India: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Background: Worldwide teenage pregnancy marks a major public health concern that hits hardest in countries with lower and medium incomes. A recent national family health survey study shows adolescent pregnancy rates climbed in three northeastern states while other parts of the country recorded progress. Understanding the factors contributing to marital teenage pregnancy is crucial for improving the health status of both mother and new born. Materials and Methods: The present study looked at teenage marital pregnancy trends and their risk factors in Northeast India based on NFHS-5 household data. Using Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, risk factors associated with teenage marital pregnancy was identified in the region. Results: Findings reveal Tripura leads all states in northeast India with maximum teenage pregnancy cases and Assam ranks second. Results show that teenagers in rural areas who follow the Islamic faith and have lower education levels plus minimal media contact face higher chances of encountering pregnancy during teenage while peers do not. Conclusions: The study recommends targeted interventions to improve access to educational opportunities along with awareness and family planning measures in rural areas to address cultural and religious factors that may influence attitudes towards child marriage and teenage pregnancy.