Centrality of Data to Reduction of Maternal Mortality

Abstract

Background: Industrialized countries of Europe and America reported similar figures of maternal mortality for developing countries today as far back two to three centuries ago. Objective: The objective of this review was to compare the strategies for reducing maternal mortality in developed countries and those adopted in developing countries and to proffer possible solutions. Sources of materials for this article are from learned journals and
reports on the subject. Conclusion: Experience from developed countries suggests that data on the magnitude of maternal mortality is central to mobilizing political commitment, resource allocation and community participation. By contrast, efforts at reducing maternal mortality in developing countries have been devoid of the emphasis placed on data and the magnitude of the problem.