Analysis of maternal deaths in southern N’Djamena District Hospital (Chad)

Abstract

Background:The maternal mortality ratio in Chad is 1099 per 100,000 live births. According to the WHO, 80% of the maternal deaths are preventable if appropriate measures were taken. 

Objective: to determine the proportion of preventable deaths and to identify the elements linked to maternal death in N'Djamena south District Hospital.

Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive study spanning over two years, from January, 1st 2013 to December, 31th 2014 carried out in N'Djamena South District Hospital concerning analysis of maternal deaths in southern N'Djamena district. All patients that died during the pregnancy or within 42 days postpartum in N'Djamena south district hospital during this survey were included. 

Results: During this survey, we recorded 52 maternal deaths for 7439 deliveries giving a maternal death rate of 699 per 100,000 deliveries.The age group between 25-29 years was the most represented with 34.6%.The majority of patients (73.1%) were referred and 48 patients (92.3%) had less than 4 prenatal consultations. The causes of maternal deaths were dominated by: delay seeking medical care, delay in accessing health facilities, and the delay in accessing efficient care .Obstetrical pathologies (direct causes) were responsible for 92.3% of deaths, these pathologies were: hemorrhage, eclampsia, abortion and infections. In 07.7% indirect causes were noted. Twenty five patients (48.2%) received medical care within 30min-1h after diagnosis. 

Conclusion: The maternal death remains a public health problem that persists in Chad. Its reduction requires the removal of delays.