Gaya: The reported maternal deaths in Gaya district have reached 67 over the past year, causing concern among health officials and prompting the administration to devise a strategy centered on awareness creation and stronger medical intervention to reduce the number.
Officials acknowledged that the actual number of maternal deaths could be higher, as not all cases are reported. Of the total deaths, 52 occurred in government hospitals. Severe anaemia has been identified as one of the major causes behind maternal mortality in the district.
Meeting on Maternal Health
The issue was discussed in detail at a meeting convened by civil surgeon Dr. Raja Ram Prasad on Monday. The meeting was attended by non-communicable disease officer Dr. E Haq, DPM Nilesh Kumar, J P N Hospital deputy superintendent Dr. Chandrashekhar, and Unicef representative Sanjay Kumar.
The participants discussed measures to strengthen pregnancy-related healthcare services, including regular medical examinations during every trimester, early identification of high-risk pregnancies, and timely medical intervention.
Importance of Early Detection
Dr. Haq said early detection of high-risk pregnancies could significantly reduce maternal deaths and stressed the need for greater awareness, particularly in rural areas. “The government has adopted a proactive protocol to address maternal deaths and high-risk pregnancies. But due to lack of awareness and other constraints, especially in rural areas, people often seek medical help at a late stage,” said Dr. Haq.
He stated that iron, folic acid, and calcium supplements are being provided free of cost to pregnant women from the second trimester until 42 weeks after childbirth. Special iron supplements are also administered to women with haemoglobin levels below 7 grams.
Low Institutional Delivery Rate
Health experts also expressed concern over the low rate of institutional deliveries in the district, currently around 50%. Officials said the figure should exceed 90%, and efforts are being intensified to encourage hospital deliveries through free ambulance services and financial incentives.
About the Author: Abdul Qadir is a widely acclaimed journalist with expertise in ultra-left extremism, political dynamics, and the education system. With a 30-year stint in journalism, Qadir has also been associated with several social, literary, and cultural activities. He has also taught Economics in a Post Graduate College in Bihar.
