Perinatal mortality in the Greater Harare Obstetric Unit area

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Perinatal Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• High perinatal mortality rates pose a significant public health challenge.
• Understanding the leading causes of perinatal death is crucial for developing effective interventions.
• Previous studies in the Greater Harare Obstetric Unit area indicated a need for detailed analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze all known perinatal deaths in the Greater Harare Obstetric Unit area during 1983.
• To determine the perinatal mortality rate based on different infant weight thresholds.
• To identify the primary causes of perinatal mortality and highlight areas for further research.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of all 1,563 recorded perinatal deaths from 45,343 births in 1983.
• Calculation of perinatal mortality rates (PMR) for infants >= 500g and >= 1,000g.
• Categorization and analysis of the causes of perinatal death, with a focus on immaturity.

Main Results:

• A total of 1,563 perinatal deaths were recorded among 45,343 births.
• The overall perinatal mortality rate was 34.5/1,000 for infants >= 500g and 26.9/1,000 for infants >= 1,000g.
• Immaturity was identified as the leading cause, contributing to 19.3% of all perinatal deaths. PMR for booked patients >= 1,000g was 20.9/1,000.

Conclusions:

• Perinatal mortality in the Greater Harare area in 1983 was substantial.
• Immaturity represents a critical area for targeted interventions and further investigation.
• Further research is needed to identify and address preventable factors contributing to perinatal mortality.