Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 1, 2025
14:43
A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
12.3K
Preventable stillbirths in India and Pakistan: a prospective, observational study
R L Goldenberg1, S Saleem2, S S Goudar3
1Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
Summary
Most stillbirths in low-income countries are preventable. Key factors include managing maternal hypertension, antepartum hemorrhage, and small for gestational age infants, highlighting the need for improved obstetric care.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Stillbirth rates are significantly higher in low-income settings compared to high-income settings.
- A substantial proportion of these stillbirths are potentially preventable with adequate medical care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and apply a methodology for determining the proportion of potentially preventable stillbirths in low-income settings.
- To identify the primary conditions associated with preventable stillbirths in India and Pakistan.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational study was conducted in maternity hospitals in India and Pakistan.
- 872 stillbirths (≥20 weeks gestation) were analyzed using comprehensive clinical, pathological, and laboratory data.
- Criteria were established to define potentially preventable stillbirths based on gestational age and clinical conditions.
Main Results:
- Over half (55.5%) of all analyzed stillbirths were deemed potentially preventable.
- For stillbirths at ≥28 weeks gestation and ≥1000g birthweight, 73.5% were considered potentially preventable.
- Common contributing factors included small for gestational age (SGA), maternal hypertension, and antepartum hemorrhage.
Conclusions:
- The majority of stillbirths in the study sites are preventable.
- Improved management of maternal hypertension, SGA, and antepartum hemorrhage is crucial for reducing stillbirth rates.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
3.3K
Essential infection prevention measures are based on the knowledge of the infection chain, the modes of transmission in healthcare settings, and the use of the best practices in all healthcare settings. Compulsory public reporting of healthcare-associated infection rates is needed to allow individuals and the community to make informed choices regarding selecting a healthcare facility.
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...
3.3K
01:07Teratogenicity
3.3K
The ability of a drug to produce structural deformations and functional abnormalities in the developing embryo or the fetus is called teratogenicity, and the drug producing this effect is known as a teratogen. Teratogenic effects include stillbirth, miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction, and neurocognitive delay. A teratogen may affect the embryo at different stages of development, which is important in determining the type and extent of the damage. During blastocyst formation, the early...
3.3K