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November 10, 2024 – A comprehensive study published in The Lancet sheds new light on global trends in stillbirths, revealing slow progress over the past 20 years and underscoring the need for targeted interventions. Conducted by the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, the research analyzed data from 204 countries between 1990 and 2021, estimating rates for stillbirths occurring at 28 weeks’ gestation or later.
Stillbirths remain a pressing public health issue and a critical indicator of maternal and child health systems. Although organizations like UNICEF and WHO have set ambitious goals to prevent stillbirths as part of the Every Newborn Action Plan, the report indicates that stillbirths continue to outpace improvements in other childhood mortality rates.
Findings from 2019: Regional Disparities Remain Stark
In 2019, an estimated 2 million stillbirths occurred globally, corresponding to a stillbirth rate of 13.9 per 1,000 total births. However, this rate varies significantly between regions. West and Central Africa had the highest stillbirth rates, with 22.8 stillbirths per 1,000 births, while Western Europe saw the lowest at just 2.9 per 1,000. Eastern and Southern Africa, along with South Asia, also reported elevated stillbirth rates, emphasizing persistent disparities between high- and low-resource regions.
The annual global reduction in stillbirths from 2000 to 2019 was estimated at 2.3%, lagging behind reductions in neonatal and child mortality, which decreased by 2.9% and 4.3% per year, respectively. According to the study, 114 countries have reduced their stillbirth rates since 2000, though 81 nations showed no progress, including many in sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia, and Latin America.
Underlying Challenges and Needed Interventions
The study identifies several hurdles in reducing stillbirths, such as inadequate access to quality prenatal and birthing care, especially in rural and underserved areas. Experts also point to limitations in stillbirth data collection, with many countries lacking the robust reporting systems necessary to track progress effectively.
Moving forward, the authors of the report call for a multifaceted approach to stillbirth prevention, including bolstered public awareness, improved health care access, and investments in better data systems. Specific focus is urged for sub-Saharan Africa, where interventions could have the most profound impact on reducing stillbirth rates.
Funding and Future Goals
Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, this study reinforces the need for sustained commitment to stillbirth reduction. As part of the UN Global Strategy for Women’s, Children’s, and Adolescents’ Health, nations are urged to accelerate interventions and align public health resources to meet the ambitious goals of halving stillbirth rates by 2030.
