Reduction maternal death rate in Mexico: from the perspective of idealism of development

Abstract

Background: Reduction of maternal death rate is a Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) in Mexico. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to ascertain if there is   a relationship among maternal death rates and variables in the economic-social field (7), health-demographic (16), work (6), home (3) infrastructure and housing assets (8).

Material and method: three multiple linear regression models were estimated using data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI): Vital Statistics, Population and Housing Census and National Population Council (CONAPO).

Results: Expectation in schooling and postpartum care are variables that influence the rate of maternal death in Mexico. In statistical terms, the rate of maternal death could be reduced up to 15% if the number of women receiving postpartum care increased by one percentage point.

Conclusions: Mexico City exhibits the highest rate of maternal deaths. Even though modernization assumptions are widely spread in the city, and women would seek hospital care during pregnancy, childbirth or the postpartum period, the truth is that the healthcare system does not incorporate strategies to reduce the level of maternal mortality. Concrete actions rather than sole dissemination of knowledge, must be taken if Mexico is to comply with this SDG of UNO’s 2030 agenda. Which shows limitations of development idealism to explain maternal death, the mere dissemination of knowledge and values without a drive for concrete actions complicates the panorama. The above could hinder Mexico's compliance with the established goal of the SDGs established in the 2030 Agenda.