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Deaths from ectopic pregnancy, United States, 1979 to 1980
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|September 1, 1983
Summary
Ectopic pregnancy deaths in the US were investigated, revealing a 0.8 per 1000 death rate. Black women faced a significantly higher risk, highlighting the need for continued surveillance and education.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Maternal Mortality Surveillance
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Ectopic pregnancy hospitalizations doubled in the 1970s, becoming a major cause of maternal death in the US.
- Understanding risk factors and incidence is crucial for reducing mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence, characteristics, and risk factors of fatal ectopic pregnancies in the United States.
- To investigate all known ectopic pregnancy deaths between 1979 and 1980.
Main Methods:
- Data collected from Centers for Disease Control (CDC) investigation of deaths.
- Information on ectopic pregnancy cases sourced from the National Hospital Discharge Survey (NHDS).
- Analysis of reported deaths by state health departments.
Main Results:
- 86 deaths confirmed from an estimated 102,100 ectopic pregnancy cases.
- Overall death-to-case rate was 0.8 per 1000.
- Black women had a 3.2 times higher relative risk of death compared to white and Hispanic women.
Conclusions:
- Continued surveillance is essential for reducing ectopic pregnancy deaths.
- Education for women and healthcare professionals can mitigate risks.
- Disparities in mortality risk based on race require targeted interventions.