Laos’ moms and babies need help. From CIA The World Factbook:
57.77 infant deaths/1,000 live births. 35th worst in the world.
580 maternal deaths/100,000 live births . 20th worst in the world.
Clean birth kits have proven effective in preventing infection, which causes 1 in 5 birth-related maternal deaths worldwide.
In Laos, 80% of births happen at home — only 20% with an attendant, according to doctors on the ground. Studies have shown that in the home setting clean birth kits are particularly effective. Analysis of 20,000 home births in rural areas of India , Nepal , and Bangladesh showed that the “use of the birth kits was linked to a dramatic drop (48%) in neonatal mortality.”Study here.
The hygienic benefits of clean birth kits can make the difference for Lao moms and babies, by preventing infection for both.
Adriel Booker says
Are you living in Laos? Have contacts there? Just wondering what “captured” you for Laos? Obviously the statistics are compelling, but is there more? How do you plan on distributing CBKs there??
wandermama says
Hi. Thanks for your interest. I lived in Thailand for about two years — one of which was on the border with Laos. Being so close, I traveled extensively in Laos and fell in love with the beautiful place and the warm people. Years later, when I learned that Laos has terrible infant and maternal mortality stats, I knew that I had to do something. I am working now to find an health-oriented organization in Laos to partner with. The first step will be a pilot program to determine the ideal method of assembling/distribution. The sustainable model of local women, assembling their own locally-sources kits is my first choice. If you have contacts that might be interested, please let me know.
Best,
Kristyn