Maternal mortality in Lebanon: Increased vulnerability among Syrian refugees

Abstract

Objective: To compare the burden and causes of maternal deaths between Syrian and Lebanese women for the period of 2010-2018.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of maternal deaths from the national notification system at the Ministry of Public Health in Lebanon during the period of 2010-2018. Maternal deaths among Syrian refugees and Lebanese citizens were compared based on cause of death, age of the woman, and nationality. Causes of maternal deaths were categorized as direct and indirect following WHO definitions.

Results: The maternal mortality ratio among the Syrian refugee women in Lebanon was higher than that of Lebanese women in the period 2010-2018, with its highest rate of 55.1 in 2017. Hemorrhage and indirect causes of maternal deaths are more common among Syrian refugee women whereas embolism and hypertension have higher proportions among Lebanese women. Maternal deaths within 48 h after birth are more common among Syrian than Lebanese women.

Conclusion: Syrian refugee women carry an increased risk for maternal mortality in Lebanon. Improving timely access and equitable provision of appropriate care should be a priority for the health system in Lebanon.

Keywords: Lebanon; maternal health; maternal mortality; preventable deaths; refugees.