Maternal death rate still high in Assam

GUWAHATI: Despite state government efforts to improve maternal health, maternal mortality rate continues to be high in the state as per Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) records.

Last year's record (from GMCH) shows there were 12,971 deliveries and out of this figure, there were 72 maternal deaths. When compared to the all India figure, which is 382 per lakh, it works out to around 550 here.

As per GMCH officials, the major causes of maternal death are septic abortion and eclampsia and this is mainly noticed among referral patients mainly from lower Assam and parts of Meghalaya.

An official said, "Most of the deaths are recorded among referral patients, those who come from outside the state. The patients come at the last moment when the situation is already bad, and most of them die on the way. But, those who are admitted on time, are given proper treatment and care."

Besides that, simple measures such as, regular medical check-ups, proper medication and maintenance of hygiene coupled with nutritious food can go a long way in ensuring maternal health.

Issues like maternal health were discussed at a seminar on the first day of the three-day golden jubilee celebration of the GMC. The seminar was presided over by Dipika Deka, a professor at AIIMS, along with other professors of the gynaecology department of GMC.

On Friday, a special seminar on HIV/ AIDS, organised by the Assam State AIDS Control Society (ASACS), was held. Junmoni Deka, a medical student, said, "Seminars like this will be very helpful for students as there's so much to learn from such dignitaries."