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Maternal mortality in Italy estimated by the Italian Obstetric Surveillance System
Alice Maraschini1, Donatella Mandolini2, Ilaria Lega2
1Statistical Service, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy. alice.maraschini@iss.it.
Scientific Reports
|December 31, 2024
Summary
Italy
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Accurate maternal mortality ratio (MMR) calculation is crucial for maternal health.
- Previous Italian MMR estimates may have underestimated the true burden.
- Enhanced surveillance systems are needed for comprehensive data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To calculate Italy's first national maternal mortality ratio (MMR) using an innovative record-linkage approach.
- To identify the primary causes of maternal death in Italy.
- To analyze trends in maternal mortality over time.
Main Methods:
- A nationwide record-linkage retrospective cohort study was conducted.
- Data from the Death Registry and Hospital Discharge Databases were integrated.
- Confidential enquiries from active surveillance supported data accuracy.
Main Results:
- The national MMR was calculated at 8.4 per 100,000 live births, significantly higher than previous estimates.
- A declining trend in maternal mortality was observed during the study period (2011-2019).
- Leading causes of early maternal death included obstetric haemorrhage, sepsis, and cardiovascular diseases.
Conclusions:
- The integrated record-linkage methodology provides a more accurate assessment of maternal mortality in Italy.
- Understanding specific causes of death is vital for targeted interventions.
- This approach offers valuable insights for global maternal health surveillance systems.
