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Maternal mortality in Pakistan--compilation of available data
1National Committee for Maternal Health and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ziauddin Medical University, Karachi.
JPMA. the Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association
|March 12, 2003
Summary
Maternal mortality ratios in Pakistan remain high, with hemorrhage, eclampsia, and sepsis as leading causes of death. Urgent policy changes and integrated maternal health services are crucial for improvement.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Reproductive Health
- Healthcare Systems
Background:
- Maternal mortality remains a significant public health challenge in Pakistan.
- Existing data on maternal mortality ratios (MMRs) and causes of death are fragmented, necessitating compilation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compile available data on maternal mortality ratios (MMRs) and causes of maternal deaths in Pakistan.
- To analyze trends and identify key factors contributing to maternal mortality in both hospital and community settings.
Main Methods:
- Systematic compilation of data from medical journals, conference proceedings, and newsletters.
- Tabulation of collected data according to the year of publication.
Main Results:
- MMRs in hospitals range from 17 to 2,736, while community MMRs range from 160 to 673.
- No decrease in MMRs observed over time in tertiary public hospitals.
- Hemorrhage, eclampsia, and sepsis are the most common causes of maternal deaths, accounting for over 80% of direct causes in hospitals and 78.1% in the community.
Conclusions:
- High maternal mortality ratios persist in Pakistan despite efforts in maternal health.
- A comprehensive, integrated approach with policy changes is essential to improve maternal health outcomes.
- Short, medium, and long-term strategies are needed, including skilled birth attendant training and enhanced emergency obstetric care systems.