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Maternal mortality crisis in the US worsens with preventable deaths

  • 2 Min To Read
  • a year ago

Maternal mortality rates in the United States have been on the rise in recent years, with an estimated 30% of maternal deaths resulting from cardiovascular disease. Anne Hutchinson, a 35-year-old woman, experienced complications after giving birth to her first child in 2019, which led to a diagnosis of peripartum cardiomyopathy and heart failure. Despite her cardiologist advising against it, Hutchinson decided she wanted another child.

The risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth for women with heart conditions are one of many factors contributing to the high maternal mortality rate in the US. Racial disparities also play a significant role, with death rates three times higher in Black women compared to White women.

Experts have highlighted the need to address non-medical reasons for maternal mortality, such as racial disparities and the issue of women not being heard when they express their concerns to healthcare providers. To raise awareness and improve care, the CDC has launched the "Hear Her" campaign, which includes videos featuring women sharing their experiences of not being taken seriously by healthcare professionals.

Efforts are being made by medical centers across the country to reduce maternal mortality and improve outcomes. Programs and studies are being implemented to target cardiovascular causes of maternal mortality and address racial disparities. The California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative, for example, has helped reduce the state's maternal mortality rate by 62% by implementing programs to address hemorrhages, high blood pressure disorders, and cesarean deliveries.

Despite these efforts, there is still a significant disparity in access to quality care. Pregnant people facing high maternal mortality rates often do not have access to the top obstetrics centers in the country. This highlights the need to address access-to-care barriers and ensure that all pregnant individuals receive equitable and quality care.

Anne Hutchinson, determined to have another child, sought support from the cardio-obstetric high-risk clinic at the Cleveland Clinic. She faced the risks associated with her heart condition and gestational diabetes during her second pregnancy but was carefully monitored and delivered a healthy baby girl.

While progress is being made to reduce maternal mortality and improve outcomes, there is still work to be done to address the underlying issues contributing to these disparities. Efforts to listen to and address the concerns of pregnant individuals, as well as initiatives to combat racial disparities in healthcare, are crucial steps towards reducing preventable maternal deaths.

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