REDUCING KENYA’S MATERNAL MORTALITY RATE: COMPARING MATERNAL MORTALITY DUE TO PRE-ECLAMPSIA IN KENYA AND THE U.S.

Abstract

Previous studies show differences in maternal mortality rates (MMRs) between Kenya and the United States; for every American that dies from pre-eclampsia, 44 Kenyans die1. This literature review examines physiology, diagnosis, and management of pre-eclampsia, and external variables affecting these MMRs. A case study of a public hospital in Kenya is presented alongside healthcare worker interviews. External variables affecting patient care include clinical deficiencies and cultural factors. Clinical deficiencies include poor patient education on pre-natal care, insufficient physician education on proper detection of pre-eclampsia and management with magnesium sulfate. Cultural factors include women’s avoidance of pre-natal care, delivery with unskilled attendants outside of hospitals, and government corruption, which limits funding, staffing, and supplies. This thesis culminates in recommendations to alleviate these disparities and reduce Kenya’s MMR and a public education poster to be displayed in Kenya. Kenya’s high MMR can be reduced with better patient and physician education concerning merits of pre-natal care and hospital deliveries, symptoms of pre-eclampsia, management with magnesium sulfate, and adequate funding.