Trends and epidemiologic patterns of maternal mortality in the Central Region of Ghana, 2020–2024

Abstract

Introduction: Maternal mortality remains a public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for over 70% of global maternal fatalities. Despite policy measures, regional disparities persist in Ghana, with Central Region persistently reporting high maternal mortality rates. This study examined five years (2020–2024) of maternal mortality surveillance data to describe trends and identify risk factors, to guide targeted interventions in the region. Methods: The study employed a secondary data analysis of maternal death records from the District Health Information Management System II (DHIMS2) and maternal death audit reports in the Central Region from January 2020 to December 2024. Variables such as age, gravidity, parity, location and cause of death, as well as deliveries categorized by age group were used. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, and analysis was conducted utilizing Microsoft Excel 365 and Epi Info 7. Results: From 2020 to 2024, 335 maternal deaths occurred, with 24.8% decrease in maternal mortality ratio (MMR). Highest, 33.7% (113/335) deaths were among 30-34years with gravida 5+ recording 27.3% (56/205) deaths. Majority, 99% (332/335) deaths occurred in healthcare institutions, with hemorrhage 34.6% (116/335) and hypertensive disorders 26% (87/335) being primary causes of mortalities. Most, 45.7% (153/335) deaths occurred in Cape Coast Metro with no mortality recorded in 3 of 22 districts in the region. The highest (8.3/1000deliveries) risk of death was among women aged 40+ and grand multipara 5+ (11.1/1000 deliveries). Conclusion: Maternal mortality in Central Region was highest among women aged 30–34, with parity influencing death risk. A downward trend in maternal deaths was noted from 2020 to 2024. Hemorrhage and hypertensive disorders were the primary causes, mostly occurring in health facilities. Older and grand multiparous women were particularly vulnerable. The regional maternal taskforce should target interventions, sustain investment in maternal death surveillance and community-based education to reduce maternal mortality in Ghana.