Highly improved perinatal states in Japan
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Emeritus), Tottori University Medical School, Yonago, Japan.
The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research
|August 19, 2014
Summary
Japan has seen dramatic improvements in perinatal health, with significant reductions in maternal and neonatal mortality rates over 111 years. Advances in medical care, especially in hospitals and neonatal intensive care units, have drastically improved infant survival rates.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Public Health
- Neonatal Care
Background:
- Analysis of governmental and United Nations Children's Fund reports to assess perinatal health trends in Japan.
- Historical data from 1899 to 2010 reveals significant shifts in maternal and neonatal mortality.
Observation:
- Maternal mortality decreased from 409.8 in 1899 to 4.1 in 2010.
- Neonatal mortality reduced from 77.9 to 1.1.
- Perinatal mortality for infants born at 22 weeks gestation decreased significantly due to advanced neonatal care.
Findings:
- Home delivery maternal mortality was 2.5 in the first 50 years, while hospital birth mortality was 39.3 in the later 60 years, highlighting the impact of medical facilities.
- Neonatal mortality rates showed a similar trend, with substantial improvements attributed to extensive neonatal care.
- Survival rates for premature infants (400-500g) in neonatal intensive care units reached 60%, and 36% of infants born at 22 weeks survived to 3 years.
Implications:
- The findings underscore the critical role of advanced medical infrastructure and specialized neonatal care in improving perinatal outcomes.
- Continued advancements in perinatal medicine and public health initiatives are essential for further reducing infant and maternal mortality.
- Improved survival rates, even with potential neurodevelopmental impairments, represent a significant public health success in Japan.
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