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The national fetal death file
Joyce A Martin1, Donna L Hoyert
1Division of Vital Statistics, National Center for Health Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Hyattsville, MD 20782, USA.
Seminars in Perinatology
|March 6, 2002
Summary
The National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) collects comprehensive US fetal death data. Revisions to reporting standards aim to improve data accuracy and reduce fetal death incidence.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Biostatistics
- Demography
Background:
- The National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) is the primary source for US fetal death data (≥20 weeks gestation).
- Data collection is a state responsibility, with the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) compiling national data.
- Standardized definitions based on World Health Organization guidelines are used, but reporting requirements vary by state.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the limitations of the current national fetal death data file.
- To identify areas for improvement in data quality and reporting.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the NVSS data collection process and its inherent limitations.
- Review of existing standards and reporting requirements for fetal deaths.
Main Results:
- Key limitations include under-reporting, high levels of missing data, data accuracy issues, and potential misclassification of events.
- Variations in state reporting requirements contribute to inconsistencies in the national file.
Conclusions:
- The upcoming revision of the US Standard Report of Fetal Death presents an opportunity to address data quality issues.
- Enhancements in reporting, data collection tools, and cause of death classification are expected to improve national fetal death data and potentially reduce incidence.