Newborn Mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa: Why is Perinatal Asphyxia Still a Major Cause?

Ann Glob Health. 2019 Aug 8;85(1):112. doi: 10.5334/aogh.2541.

Abstract

Global new-born mortality has shown steady decline over the last two decades, but this decline has been slowest in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Perinatal asphyxia (PA) is a major cause of new-born deaths in this region and as such SSA now contributes a disproportionate large percentage of global asphyxia-related deaths. In this paper, we examine regional challenges affecting primary, secondary and tertiary prevention of PA and proffers locally adaptable solutions to these identified challenges.

MeSH terms

  • Africa South of the Sahara / epidemiology
  • Asphyxia Neonatorum / mortality*
  • Asphyxia Neonatorum / prevention & control*
  • Asphyxia Neonatorum / therapy
  • Female
  • Health Services Accessibility
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Obstetrics
  • Prenatal Care
  • Primary Prevention*
  • Secondary Prevention*
  • Tertiary Prevention*