Present and future of maternal mortality in Latin America.
Twenty-three thousand maternal deaths per year in Latin America and the Caribbean reflects clearly the critical situation in this part of the world. Although we don't know exactly how many women die every year from pregnancy and childbirth, it is clear that the majority of these women are from low socioeconomic backgrounds, live in remote places and have a low level of education. Hemorrhages, infections and hypertension induced by pregnancy are the most common causes of maternal mortality. These pathologies can in many cases be prevented if there is a will for a positive change that involves different sectors related with health. The role of the scientific societies, and the role of FIGO through the 'Save the Mothers' Project are of extreme importance, assuming a chief role and compromise that can help in the right way to be able to revert this situation.
Acosta
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Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National University of Asunción, Asunción, Paraguay and Medical University, La Habana, Cuba. flasog@pla.net.py
Cabezas
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Chaparro
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D001723:Birth Rate; D005260:Female; D005544:Forecasting; D006266:Health Education; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D007843:Latin America / Q000453:epidemiology; D008427:Maternal Health Services / Q000639:trends; D008428:Maternal Mortality / Q000639:trends; D011247:Pregnancy; D011787:Quality of Health Care; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors