Epidemiology of perinatal mortality: a hospital baed study
Fazili, F.; Mattoo, G.M.
Jk Practitioner a Journal of Current Clinical Medicine and Surgery 6(1): 41-45
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0971-8834 PMID: 12295050 Document Number: 282003
Perinatal mortality reflects the amount of pregnancy wastage due to fetal and neonatal deaths, and is considered a sensitive indicator of maternal and child health status in particular and community health status in general. The perinatal mortality rate (PNMR) in India is 5-6 times higher than in developed countries. Findings are presented from a study conducted to determine the effect of various epidemiological correlates upon perinatal mortality observed in the population attending the Maternal and Child Hospital at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, between January 1994 and January 1995. The total PNMR was 43.1/1000 total births, and the still birth rate (SBR) and early neonatal death rate (ENDR) were 27.5/1000 and 16.0/1000 births, respectively. PNMR was almost 6 times higher in multiple births when compared to singleton births. Furthermore, PNMR was significantly higher among illiterate mothers, in extremes of age, among those living in joint families, and those having incomplete antenatal care. PNMR was low among the higher socioeconomic classes. Maternal weight had a significant effect upon perinatal loss.