RESUMO
Objective To analyse both micro level and macro level factors influencing maternal mortality in order to set the priority to lowering maternal mortality. Method The results of an analysis of maternal mortality were reported, based on a conceptual model that combines micro level and macro level variables taken from demographic, sociological and epidemiological research. Multi level analysis techniques were used to analyse the 1997 linked county level maternal death data and related county level social demographic and health resources data in 114 counties of 5 remote and poverty stricken provinces. Results The maternal mortality rate in research areas was as high as 159.3/100 000. The main factors influencing maternal mortality were institutional delivery rate, population density, percentage of minority population, and percentage of village without village doctor. Conclusion To advocate institutional delivery rate, to pay greater attention to minority and low population density area, and to standardised village doctors' responsibility are recommended strategies to lowering maternal mortality in remote and poverty stricken areas of China.