Karnataka's Alarming Rise in Maternal Mortality Ratio: A Southern Conundrum

Karnataka has unfortunately earned the distressing distinction of having the highest Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) among the southern states, a recent analysis by the Registrar General of India reveals. This concerning statistic, which gauges the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, casts a shadow over the state's public health achievements and calls for immediate, focused intervention.

According to the latest Special Bulletin on Maternal Mortality in India 2020-22, Karnataka's MMR stands at 69, a figure that is significantly higher than its southern counterparts.

Telangana reports an MMR of 43, while Andhra Pradesh is at 34, Kerala at 19, and Tamil Nadu at 32. Even states like Maharashtra and Gujarat, with comparable populations, show lower MMRs of 33 and 38 respectively, highlighting the urgency of the situation in Karnataka.

The bulletin indicates a slight decrease in Karnataka's MMR from 83 in 2018-20 to 69 in 2020-22.

While any reduction is a step in the right direction, the rate of decline is slower compared to other states, and the overall position remains precarious. The national average MMR, for context, has dropped to 99 during the same period, demonstrating a broader positive trend that Karnataka struggles to fully align with.

Public health experts and officials are pointing to a confluence of factors contributing to Karnataka's elevated MMR.

A primary concern is the relatively low institutional delivery rate in some districts, particularly in rural and remote areas. Despite efforts to promote hospital births, cultural practices, lack of access to transportation, and a shortage of skilled birth attendants in primary healthcare centers can still lead to home deliveries, increasing risks for both mother and child.

Furthermore, issues related to antenatal care (ANC) and postnatal care (PNC) are critical.

Inadequate or late ANC check-ups can miss early detection of high-risk pregnancies, while insufficient PNC can lead to complications going unnoticed. Nutrition also plays a significant role; anemia and malnutrition among pregnant women are prevalent, making them more vulnerable to complications during childbirth.

The quality of healthcare infrastructure in certain regions is another area needing improvement.

While major cities boast advanced medical facilities, disparities exist in district and sub-district hospitals. A lack of essential equipment, specialist doctors, and trained staff can severely impact the ability to handle obstetric emergencies effectively.

Addressing Karnataka's high MMR requires a multi-pronged approach.

Strengthening primary healthcare infrastructure, increasing access to quality antenatal and postnatal care, promoting institutional deliveries through community engagement, and improving nutritional status among women are crucial steps. Targeted interventions in high-burden districts, coupled with robust data collection and analysis, will be vital to understand specific local challenges and tailor solutions.

The state must learn from its more successful neighbors and implement best practices to ensure that every mother has a safe pregnancy and delivery, truly reflecting its commitment to public health.