|
Two key issues to clarify prior to measuring maternal mortality |
| Why is the estimate needed? |
| • To generate a broad estimate of the magnitude of the problem |
| • To identify detailed causes, differentials and determinants |
| • To identify differences in levels within a country |
| • To permit cross-country comparisons |
| • To enable regular monitoring of progress |
| What resources are available? |
| • Existing data sources or data-collection opportunities, for example routine civil registration, large multi-purpose surveys |
| • Human resources, for example technical skills to design a survey, or to manage, analyse and interpret data |
| • Field budget, for example funds available for new data collection |
| • Time available, for example estimate needed immediately, in 1–2 years time, or longer |
Graham et al. BMC Medicine 2008 6:12 doi:10.1186/1741-7015-6-12 |