Expanding Global IR Outreach to Address Postpartum Hemorrhage in Kenya Using Geospatial Analytic Mapping

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging and Radiology
• Public Health
• Geospatial Analysis

Background:

• Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) poses a significant threat to maternal health globally.
• Access to specialized interventional radiology (IR) services is crucial for managing severe PPH.
• Understanding the geographic distribution of PPH and IR services is vital for effective healthcare planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To map the landscape of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and interventional radiology (IR) services in Kenya.
• To utilize geospatial analytic mapping for strategic outreach planning.
• To identify disparities in PPH care and IR service availability.

Main Methods:

• Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis of Kenyan data from 2014-2018.
• Evaluation of demographic data, PPH variables, and healthcare access at regional and county levels.
• Creation of population risk indices and multilayered GIS maps for visualization.

Main Results:

• Maternal hemorrhage incidence in Kenya increased by 38% between 2014 and 2018.
• Only six hospitals offering essential IR services for PPH are located in Nairobi.
• High maternal mortality ratios (MMRs) were observed in southeastern and northwestern regions, with significant disparities in IR service access.

Conclusions:

• GIS analysis revealed disproportionate PPH morbidity and mortality in areas lacking IR capabilities.
• Geospatial mapping is a valuable tool for understanding population health and PPH burden.
• Findings can guide strategic targeting of global IR services for improved maternal outcomes.