Using Digital Technology to Prevent Maternal Deaths from Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy (HDP) account for 15% South Africa's (SA) institutional maternal mortality ratio of 154/100000 live births, the third highest cause after non-pregnancy related infections (35%) and hemorrhage (16%). The main obstetric problems are eclampsia, severe hypertension, HELLP syndrone and liver rupture, with eclampsia being the most common cause of mortality. Maternal deaths due to HDP have been found to be preventable in 67% of reported cases. (NCCEMD Report Ref 1).