Perinatal morbidity and mortality in the Philippines.

Abstract

AbstractThis study aims to identify the causes of perinatal morbidity and mortality at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, and analyze the factors that lead to such results with the aim of improving them. Comparison is made with National Statistics and those of other countries. There were 4219 deliveries of 28 weeks and later or 1,000 grams and more during 1980–1982. Only 4057 were available for study. Results showed a neonatal death rate of 39/4015 (early neonatal death rate) or 9.7/1000 live births and a late fetal death rate of 42/4057 or 10.3/1000 total births with a perinatal mortality rate of 81/4057 or 19.99/1000 total births. Morbidity rate was 250/4015 or 62.3/1000 live births.Analysis of perinatal data correlated with maternal conditions, manner of delivery, age of gestation and birth weight was made. The study showed that results can be improved by early detection and treatment of maternal complications, but these are dependent on a multitude of socio‐economic and biological factors. The quality of mortality reporting was noted to be a source of difficulty in the study and is recommended for improvement.