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Cesarean Section Dynamics in Bangladesh: Tradition, Transition, and SDG-Driven Progress

Students & Supervisors

Student Authors
Koushik Biswas Arko
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering, FST
Supervisors
Md. Mortuza Ahmmed
Associate Professor, Faculty, FST

Abstract

Background In Bangladesh, Cesarean section birth has risen over the previous two decades and become a significant indicator of mother and baby health. This research explores temporal trends and variables that cause high cesarean section rates that challenge the accomplishment of maternal and child health in SDGs. Objective The objectives of this study are to investigate the association between rising rates of CS and other key health inputs and outcomes consisting of Maternal mortality rate, Infant mortality rate, Skilled birth attendant prevalence proportion, Health expenditures and socio-demographic characteristics, with a focus on rural and urban areas. Methodology The present cross-sectional study evaluated data on CS rates, maternal and infant mortality, hospital deliveries, and health investments on a nationwide basis for the year 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2020. Data were provided by reports from WHO and the Bangladesh health surveys. Trend analyses were carried out to study temporal changes and their relationship with health outcomes. Results Consequently, in Bangladesh, the rates of CS went up astronomically from 2.1% in the year 2000 to 33.1% in 2020, matching a gain with a reduction in maternal mortality by 59.4% and infant mortality by 60.6%. These include skilled birth attendance, whereby deliveries have gone up from 2.8% to 4.8% in hospitals, and health expenditure as a share of GDP. However, the proportion of high-risk pregnancies increased from 15% to 36%, and striking rural-urban disparities persist in CS rates. Policy interventions, particularly after 2010, contributed to moderate-to-high SDG progress. Conclusion An increase in CS rates indicates better health outcomes for mothers and newborns. However, the increase in high-risk pregnancies and persistent urban-rural inequalities have targeted policy implications. On the other hand, policies regarding balancing CS practices and improving healthcare equity are issues that need to be considered if the SDGs are ever to be achieved.

Keywords

cesarean maternal infant healthcare disparities

Publication Details

  • Type of Publication: Conference
  • Conference Name: 10th International Public Health Conference - 2024
  • Date of Conference: 12/06/2024 - 12/07/2024
  • Venue: TMSS Medical College, Bogura, Bangladesh
  • Organizer: Public Health Foundation Bangladesh
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