Pregnancy-associated mortality in Taiwan, 2004-2011

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Public Health Surveillance
• Maternal Mortality

Background:

• Pregnancy-associated death is a critical indicator of maternal health.
• Understanding mortality patterns is essential for national health assessment.
• Taiwan's specific data on pregnancy-associated mortality requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the pregnancy-associated mortality ratio (PAMR) in Taiwan.
• To analyze the causes of pregnancy-associated deaths by maternal age.
• To compare Taiwan's mortality patterns with international data.

Main Methods:

• Linked nationwide population-based datasets (2004-2011).
• Included birth registration, birth notification, NHI claims, and mortality data.
• Calculated PAMR and cause-specific mortality distributions.

Main Results:

• Overall PAMR was 36 deaths per 100,000 live births.
• A J-shaped age-specific PAMR pattern was observed, peaking in older age groups.
• Age-standardized PAMR showed an initial decrease, then leveled off.
• Proportion of indirect causes increased over time in specific age groups.

Conclusions:

• Taiwan's PAMR is moderate compared to international studies.
• The proportion of external causes of death is notably low in Taiwan.
• Further research, including death reviews, is recommended to identify preventable factors.