In January 2010, the State of California released data that showed an alarming increase in the rate of maternal mortality in the state, a tripling of the incidence of death either during pregnancy or within the first 6 weeks after birth. Much publicity was generated and much discussion ensued about the causes of this disturbing trend. When the causes were explored it seemed to come down to two main areas: the persistent increase in the national cesarean section rate and the increase in underlying maternal risk factors that contribute to complications--namely, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.

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Many risk factors for mortality are not preventable--for example, African-American women are at four times risk for pregnancy mortality compared to their Caucasian, Hispanic, or Asian counterparts. However, many of the greatest risk factors are preventable. While we can be, and should be, concerned and critical about the rapidly escalating cesarean section rate both in California and nationally, the reality is that the reason for the increase in pregnancy mortality is also largely influenced by the underlying medical conditions of our pregnant population. In other words, if we, as a nation, or as individuals, can improve our health by developing healthy habits and behaviors that diminish our underlying risks, we should be able to decrease the risks of pregnancy and childbirth and improve our overall health outlook.

By: the Physicians of Health Butler
[3/28/2010]

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