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Saving Babies: Skills Fight Mortality
10 May
Summary
- Timely neonatal resuscitation training is crucial.
- Nearly 40% of newborn deaths occur within 24 hours.
- Birth asphyxia causes 15-20% of neonatal fatalities.
A program held on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at AIIMS-Mangalagiri underscored the critical role of timely neonatal resuscitation and ongoing training in curbing newborn mortality. This initiative, part of the National Neonatology Forum's effort to enhance resuscitation skills nationwide, included basic training for doctors and nursing officers.
The country faces a significant challenge with neonatal mortality, as approximately 40% of these deaths tragically occur within the first day of a baby's life. Birth asphyxia, a condition where a newborn does not receive adequate oxygen during birth, is a major contributor, accounting for 15-20% of these early fatalities.
Experts emphasized that many such preventable deaths could be avoided through quality antenatal care, careful monitoring during labor according to WHO protocols, and ensuring a skilled healthcare provider trained in bag-and-mask ventilation is present at every delivery. The event saw participation from AIIMS-Mangalagiri leadership and medical professionals.
