The countries where mothers are most (and least) at risk
The maternal mortality ratio (MMR) shows deaths per 100,000 live births; the lifetime risk also takes into account the fertility rate.
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Over 84% of maternal deaths occur in Africa and South Asia
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Skilled birth attendance
This map shows the percentage of births attended by skilled health personnel around the world in the 2000-06 period. Note how similar it is to the map of maternal mortality rates on the facing page – making sure that all births are overseen by health workers is the single most important means of preventing maternal and newborn deaths.
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Why do women die giving birth?
Haemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal death in both Africa and Asia.
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Most mothers who die come from just 10 countries