Reduce maternal, infant mortality: DK Deputy Commissioner tells officials

Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada District Commissioner Mullai Muhilan M P has raised concerns about maternal and infant mortality rates in the district, urging officials to focus on reducing these statistics. Discussions at the recent District-level Review Committee meeting highlighted the pressing need to address post-delivery health complications contributing to these deaths.

Despite commendable healthcare infrastructure, reports of maternal and infant mortality following childbirth remain a significant worry. The DC emphasized the urgency of mitigating these issues, pointing out specific factors contributing to maternal mortality, such as pre-existing conditions like anemia, excessive bleeding, infections, and other health complications.

Officials stressed the importance of accurate and comprehensive information during pregnancy, advising the proper maintenance of records through the “Thayi Card” to ensure timely and appropriate care.

Furthermore, efforts were urged at the grassroots level, with ASHA and Anganwadi workers advised to provide crucial support and education regarding maternal health to households, while debunking superstitions and promoting contact with medical professionals for prenatal concerns.

Analysis of cases involving post-delivery maternal mortality was conducted to understand the backgrounds of affected families.

At present, the Infant Mortality Rate in D.K. stands at 39 deaths per 1,000 births. While this is quite less than the state average, it is significantly higher than neighbouring Kerala which records only 19 deaths per 1000 births.