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9 pregnant women die monthly in Eastern Region

This is higher than the figures recorded in 2016 and 2015 which recorded 104 and 102 cases respectively.

The 2017 figure translates to 108/100,000 live births.

By analysing the figure and reducing to monthly mortalities, it means 9 expectant mothers died every month in a health facility in the Eastern Region in 2017.

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Commenting on the situation the Eastern Regional Health Director, Dr Charity Sarpong said the deaths were “unnecessary” since it could be prevented.

“Every month approximately nine (9) women and girls die from causes related to pregnancy and childbirth in the region.”

“The region recorded 108 maternal deaths in 2017, most of these deaths are totally unnecessary.”

She said the situation can be partly blamed on religious beliefs and traditions which prevent the expectant mothers from seeking frequent antenatal care. She added that they have put in place measures over the years to reduce the alarming maternal mortality rate.

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She also said that they have inadequate staff which if addressed will help them do better.

She also raised concern over uneven distribution of staff depriving other districts of equitable and quality health Services.

Despite these challenges, the regional health directorate has been ranked among the high performing directorates in the country.

The Director said this during the 2017 Eastern Region Annual Performance Review Meeting held in Koforidua.

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