This document outlines a regional analysis of maternal mortality in Asia, including trends in the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) across regions and country-specific results. It notes that three major Asian countries are among the top contributors to global maternal deaths and that declining fertility rates, growing GDP, increased skilled birth attendance coverage, and greater maternal education have likely all contributed to observed declines in the MMR in Asia. An interactive online tool is referenced for tracking changes in maternal deaths across regions and viewing multiple health indicators over time.

1. Maternal mortality in Asia November 2, 2010 Christopher J.L. Murray, Institute Director Rafael Lozano, Professor of Global Health Katie Leach-Kemon, Data Development Manager

3. GBD Epidemiological Regions

6. Regional trends in the MMR

7. Regional trends in the MMR

41. Track changes in maternal deaths across regions using the web-based tools

42. 3 major Asian contributors to global maternal deaths

43. Declining total fertility rate may contribute to lower maternal mortality

47. Growth in GDP may also contribute to declining MMR

52. Coverage of skilled birth attendance may also contribute to observed declines

57. Maternal education is a fourth factor contributing to declines in the MMR

62. IHME’s interactive map tool permits users to view changes in multiple indicators over time

64. Global number of deaths, also by region