Maternal mortality in rural Gambia: levels, causes and contributing factors

Abstract

Women are 75 times more likely to die as a result of pregnancy in sub-Saharan Africa than in developed regions. Reducing maternal mortality is therefore high on the international health agenda. But how effective are current efforts to improve maternal health in developing countries?

What factors cause and contribute to maternal mortality? How can they be more successfully addressed? A demographic study by the Medical Research Council Laboratories in rural Gambia suggest that maternal mortality ratios are often reduced following the introduction of better obstetric care. The authors also suggest further action to improve maternal survival.

Citation

Ronsmans, C. Maternal mortality in rural Gambia: levels, causes and contributing factors. ID21, (2002)

Maternal mortality in rural Gambia: levels, causes and contributing factors

Published 1 January 2002