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Maternal mortality in southern Israel
J R Leiberman1, D Fraser, M Mazor
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva, Israel.
Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Maternal deaths in Southern Israel were significantly reduced by prenatal care, with higher risks observed in Bedouin and older, multiparous women. Hemorrhage, preeclampsia-eclampsia, and pulmonary embolism were primary causes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Maternal mortality rates in Southern Israel between 1969 and 1991 were analyzed.
- Significant disparities in maternal death rates were observed between Jewish and Bedouin populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate maternal mortality trends in Southern Israel.
- To identify risk factors and preventive measures for maternal deaths.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 166,410 births and 13 maternal deaths from 1969 to 1991.
- Comparison of maternal death rates across different demographic groups (Jewish vs. Bedouin, age, parity).
- Assessment of the impact of prenatal care on maternal mortality.
Main Results:
- Overall maternal death rate was 7.8/100,000, with Bedouin women experiencing a higher rate (12.7/100,000) than Jewish women (5.9/100,000).
- Women without prenatal care had a significantly higher mortality risk (39.1/100,000) compared to those with care (4.6/100,000).
- Leading causes of death included hemorrhage, preeclampsia-eclampsia, and pulmonary embolism; older, multiparous women were disproportionately affected.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal care is a critical factor in reducing maternal mortality.
- Targeted interventions are needed for high-risk populations, including Bedouin women and those with advanced maternal age or high parity.
- Addressing hemorrhage, preeclampsia-eclampsia, and pulmonary embolism is crucial for improving maternal outcomes.