TITLE:
Evolution and Risk Factors of Maternal Mortality in Cameroon: A Case Control Study
AUTHORS:
Boten Merlin, Mandeng Nadia, Achuo Ascensius Mforteh, Ngo Dingom Madye, Dissack Delon Fanny, Tameh Theodore, Mbi Kobenge Fidelia, Takang William, Dobgima Pisoh Walter, Ndjene Constance, Essome Henri
KEYWORDS:
Maternal Mortality, Ratio, Live Births, Risk Factors
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Vol.13 No.7,
July
27,
2023
ABSTRACT: Background: Maternal mortality is still high in sub-Saharan
Africa, especially in Cameroon where more efforts to reduce maternal mortality
and provide universal access to reproductive health should be made. This study
aims to see the evolution of maternal mortality and identify associated risk
factors in Laquintinie hospital in Cameroon. Methods: A manual review of records for 166 maternal deaths (cases) and 322 controls was
undertaken using a standard audit
form. The sample included pregnant women aged 16 - 46 years admitted at the maternity of Laquintinie
Hospital in Douala, Cameroon from January
2017 to December 2022. Software SSPS 3 and Logistic regression analysis
were used to analyze data. Results: One hundred and sixty-six
(166) maternal deaths were identified
during the study period for 14,114 live births, representing a
maternal mortality ratio of 1176/100,000 live births. Factors significantly associated with maternal mortality
included: young age (15 - 24 years) (aOR 0.11, 95% CI 0.00 - 0.76, p = 0.037), Alcohol intake (aOR 22.79, 95% CI 1.04 - 501.3, p = 0.047), Abortion or ectopic pregnancy (aOR 61.53, 95% CI 1.29 - 2927.3, p = 0.037), having no antenatal visits (aOR 388.3 95% CI 5.6 - 2675.9, p = 0.006), being admitted with hemorrhage (aOR 343.7, 95% CI
16.2 - 7276.0, p ,713.0, 95% CI 128.2 - 5,989,223.3, p CI 0.00 - 0.18, p = 0.016). Conclusion: Despite slight decrease in maternal mortality, early
diagnosis of pregnancy and good Antenatal care associated with maternal health
education are important factors for reducing maternal mortality.
Young women were the most affected. Singles, alcoholics, women with a no
or only primary education level, and referred women represented the majority of
deceased cases.