Improving global maternal health:  progress, challenges, and promise.
OBJECTIVE
This review discusses the unprecedented global commitment to improve maternal health and scientific advancements in the field achieved during the last year.


RESULTS
Achievements at political, scientific, and programmatic levels targeted at improving maternal health, especially in low-resource settings, are described. Remaining challenges are discussed and the most promising areas of research and practice aimed at addressing these challenges are identified.


CONCLUSIONS
For the first time in decades, it is evident that progress in reducing mortality on a global scale is possible. Results showing increases in coverage of key maternal health interventions and the establishment of a system for promoting accountability are key determinants of that progress.
Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Jennifer H
JH
Requejo
Mario
M
Merialdi
Flavia
F
Bustreo
D003906:Developing Countries; D005260:Female; D014943:Global Health; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand / Q000639:trends*; D006305:Health Status Indicators; D006801:Humans; D008427:Maternal Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards* / Q000639:trends; D008428:Maternal Mortality / Q000639:trends; D008429:Maternal Welfare / Q000639:trends*; D011247:Pregnancy; D047928:Premature Birth; D011295:Prenatal Care / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards* / Q000639:trends; D012042:Registries / Q000592:standards