Stress on steps to lower infant mortality rate

SAROJINI NAIDU Children's Hospital observed 'Infant Week' from November 15 to 21. A symposium was organised on the occasion to make parents aware of the health related problems of infant.

SAROJINI NAIDU Children's Hospital observed 'Infant Week' from November 15 to 21. A symposium was organised on the occasion to make parents aware of the health related problems of infant.

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On the occasion, MLN Medical College principal Dr PC Saxena said the infant mortality rate was very high in developing countries. The progress of the country should be assessed with the infant mortality rate. "The first seven days after birth are very crucial and most of the deaths of babies occur in this period only," he pointed out.

Head of Paediatric Department Prof Rajiv Sharan said three main reasons have been identified for high infant mortality. These include respiratory disorder, premature birth and infection soon after the birth. "All these factors can be prevented with little awareness. There is also need to form an effective policy for bringing down infant mortality rate," he said.

Professor Department of Social and Preventive Medicine Department Dr Shraddha Dwivedi said unsafe delivery by untrained midwives was also one of the major causes of high mortality rate in Allahabad district. "It has been found that 85 per cent deliveries take place in home. There is need to train midwives in rural areas for safe delivery," she said.

Professor, Department of Gynaecology, Dr Ragini Mehrotra said only a healthy mother could give birth to a healthy child. Dr H Rehman, Dr PC Mishra, Dr DK Singh and Dr SM Pandey also expressed their views at the symposium. Paediatric Department spokesperson Dr Ruchi Rai conducted the programme. Professor Paediatrics, Dr AK Srivastava welcomed the guests.

Also present on the occasion was Dr Rakesh Chandra.