- Bangladesh, a low-middle-class economy with a high population density and 75% of population residing in rural areas has successfully reduced it maternal mortality rate MMR (the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births) by 66% between 1990 and 2010.
- The average annual rate of decrease at 5.9% is well above the Millennium Development Goal of 5.5% above, and it is likely to attain its MDG 5 target of 143 per 100,000 live births a year ahead of its schedule.
- India too reduced it by 65% between 1990 and 2013, but with an annual reduction of 4.9%, it is likely to miss its MDG target.
- Reasons that made it possible for Bangladesh:
- Increase in status and value of women and reduction in the discrimination against women.
- 80% literacy in women, particularly in the age group of 18-24, has increased their ability to seek healthcare especially during their reproductive age.
- Consistent efforts by the govt towards the goal irrespective of the political party in power.
- Reduction in number of births. Every couple produces 2 children as opposed to 5 per couple that prevailed 20 years ago.
- Increased use of contraceptives has reduced the fertility rate by 0.7 child per women. On average, the current fertility is 2.3 and desired fertility is 1.6. The gap can be reduced by reducing fertility.
- Low parity risk deliveries, younger women delivering babies and women with fewer children delivering babies reduced the risks associated with deliveries, thereby reducing MMR.
- Increase in deliveries performed by medically trained professional.
- As more people are focused on private health sector, Bangladesh is hoping to take a leaf out of India’s public health program, to make health care available to even the ultra poor.
- Read at: http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-sci-tech-and-agri/bangladesh-womens-education-cuts-maternal-child-mortality/article6171819.ece
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