Determinants of Maternal Mortality: A Comparison of Geographic Differences in the Northern and Southern Regions of Cameroon
Abstract
The global decline in maternal mortality has not been experienced in Cameroon. Instead, maternal mortality has increased. With a predominantly young population, high maternal death may persist. It is unknown if the North and South, the most distinct parts of Cameroon, differ on levels and determinants of maternal mortality. This study assessed differences between the North and South of Cameroon on the levels and determinants of maternal mortality using Cameroon Demographic and Health Surveys and multivariable logistic regressions. Age, parity and education were associated with maternal mortality in Cameroon as a whole. Distance to facility was only significant in the North while domestic violence and ethnicity were associated with maternal mortality in the South. Regional differences in maternal mortality exist in Cameroon. The findings of this study highlight the need for strategies to improve the socioeconomic and sociocultural conditions of women in the North and South of Cameroon respectively.