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Levels and trends in cesarean birth in the developing world
Cynthia K Stanton1, Sara A Holtz
1Department of Population and Family Health Sciences, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. cstanton@jhsph.edu
Studies in Family Planning
|March 31, 2006
Summary
Cesarean birth rates are increasing globally, reaching 12% in developing nations. Monitoring these trends is crucial for assessing medical practices and ensuring appropriate care.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Global Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Cesarean birth rates are rising in many developing countries.
- Understanding current rates and trends is essential for public health.
- There is a need for updated global data on cesarean delivery practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the current cesarean birth rate in developing countries.
- To determine regional variations in cesarean delivery rates.
- To document trends in cesarean birth rates nationally and by residence.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive database of cesarean birth rates was compiled.
- Data represented 90% of births in the developing world.
- Analysis included national and regional trends, and urban/rural data where available.
Main Results:
- The estimated cesarean birth rate for the developing world is 12%.
- Regional rates varied significantly, from 3% to 26%.
- Most countries saw increased rates in the 1990s, with exceptions in sub-Saharan Africa.
Conclusions:
- Cesarean birth rates require routine monitoring to identify rapid practice changes.
- These data can prompt investigations into the appropriateness of cesarean delivery rates.
- Global surveillance of cesarean birth practices is vital for maternal and child health.
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