[Maternal mortality in Peru]

Area of Science:

• Demography
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Context:

• Maternal mortality remains a critical public health issue in developing nations.
• The second Demographic and Family Health Survey (ENDES-II) in Peru (1991-1992) provides valuable data for analysis.
• Utilizing an adult mortality module allowed for innovative estimation of maternal mortality.

Purpose:

• To investigate the levels and determinants of maternal mortality in Peru.
• To examine the relationship between maternal mortality and educational attainment.
• To assess the impact of formal education on reducing maternal mortality incidence.

Summary:

• Analysis of ENDES-II data reveals an inverse correlation between maternal mortality rates and education levels.
• Formal education, in particular, demonstrates a significant role in mitigating maternal mortality.
• The study utilized sibling history data to estimate maternal mortality, a novel approach for the survey.

Impact:

• Findings underscore the importance of educational interventions for maternal health strategies in Peru.
• Highlights education as a crucial social determinant of maternal health outcomes.
• Provides evidence for policymakers to prioritize education to reduce preventable maternal deaths.