"We focus on saving mothers and babies through early booking, early recognition of danger signs and early intervention " minister Uys said. South Africa and the Western Cape have a high infant and maternity mortality rate. Countrywide it is 12 times higher than the international Western standard. The estimated maternal mortality rate for South Africa is 175 for every 100 000 births. In the Western Cape the figure is much lower than half with 77 maternal deaths for every 100 000 births. " Through awareness weeks such as these we try to lower the mortality rate " says Uys.
Min Uys said women must not only adapt to a healthier lifestyle during pregnancy, but must also be more cautious then usual. He gave the following advice to pregnant women:
" Partners of pregnant women must also be aware of their responsibilities and not neglect their duties " Minister Uys concluded.
Enquiries:
Herman van der Westhuizen
Media Liaison Officer to the Minister of Health
Tel: 021 483 2627