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Severe acute maternal morbidity in low-income countries
1Infectious Disease Epidemiology Unit, Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, UK. carine.ronsmans@lshtm.ac.uk
Best Practice & Research. Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology
|February 10, 2009
Summary
Defining and identifying severe obstetric complications remains challenging in low-income countries. This review examines studies on measuring severe acute maternal morbidity to improve safe motherhood programs.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Maternal Health
Background:
- Severe acute maternal morbidity (SAMM) is a critical indicator for maternal health, yet its definition and identification present challenges.
- Limited experience exists in utilizing SAMM for audits, case reviews, or monitoring safe motherhood programs in low-income settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review published studies on the measurement of severe acute maternal morbidity in low-income countries.
- To describe the definition and ascertainment methods for SAMM cases.
- To provide examples of SAMM data informing safe motherhood initiatives.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published literature on severe acute maternal morbidity measurement.
- Analysis of 37 studies from 24 low-income countries.
- Description of case definition and ascertainment strategies for SAMM.
Main Results:
- Identified 37 studies across 24 countries focusing on SAMM measurement.
- Detailed various approaches to defining and identifying severe obstetric complications.
- Highlighted practical applications of SAMM data in enhancing safe motherhood programs.
Conclusions:
- Despite challenges in definition and identification, severe acute maternal morbidity is a valuable metric.
- Utilizing SAMM data can significantly inform and improve the effectiveness of safe motherhood programs in resource-limited settings.
- Further research and standardized methodologies are needed for consistent SAMM measurement and application.
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