Amid the celebrations for World Population Day in 2024, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr Samanta Lal Sen, emphasised the need to reduce the country's rate of caesarean sections.
Addressing the audience at the Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Mujib Convention Hall at BSMMU on Thursday, Dr Sen stressed, "My plea to those working at the grassroots level is to encourage proper check-ups, especially for expectant mothers. We aim to minimise the number of caesareans; the fewer surgeries, the better."
Highlighting the concerning rise in caesarean deliveries in private clinics and hospitals, the Minister underlined the importance of regular antenatal care at community clinics and upazila health complexes. He expressed concern over instances where previous births have led to automatic recommendations for caesareans, emphasising the need to investigate underlying reasons.
"When I visit each upazila health complex, I observe the ANC corners to track check-ups and delivery practices," Dr Sen remarked. "Understanding why previous caesareans occurred is crucial. By addressing root causes, we can certainly reduce their frequency."
Statistics reveal a significant increase in caesarean rates over the past decade. In 2004, the rate was 3.99%, but recent data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics indicates a rise to 50.7%. Dr Sen urged a reevaluation of practices to ensure caesareans are medically necessary.
The event, also attended by State Minister of Health and Family Welfare Rokeya Sultana, included discussions led by health officials and stakeholders on strategies to promote safer childbirth practices nationwide.
