An assessment of the extent of registration of stillbirths and neonatal deaths in Jamaica

ABSTRACT

A study was done between February and May, 1988 to determine the completeness of registration of stillbirths and neonatal deaths in Jamaica. Registrations were matched with data on events identified in the Jamaica Perinatal Mortality and Morbidity Study, 1986-1987. The results indicated very low levels of registration - 6 percent of stillbirths and 11 percent of neonatal deaths. This was the trend irrespective of where the event took place or who was in attendance at the birth. However, there was a significantly higher level of registration of stillbirths that occurred in private hospitals (5 percent). Neonatal deaths which occurred at home were more likely to be registered (22 percent) than those in hospital (12 percent). The low level of registration is attributable mainly to insufficient knowledge on the part of the public as well as health workers of the importance of vital statistics and registration. A public education programme and training for health workers and registrars were recommended as actions likely to bring about significant improvements in the vital registration system. (AU)