India Sets Ambitious Goal to Reduce Stillbirth Rate to 10 per 1,000 Births by 2030 at SBSI Annual Meet

Hyderabad: The 2nd Annual Stillbirth Society of India (SBSI) Conference, hosted by the Fernandez Hospital Educational and Research Foundation (FHERF) and SBSI, concluded today at the Park Hotel, Hyderabad.

The three-day event, running from 13th to 15th November, brought together over 200 healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, and community advocates with a shared objective: to reduce India’s stillbirth rate to 10 per 1,000 births by 2030.

The conference featured a series of workshops, research paper presentations, keynote addresses, and panel discussions led by renowned global experts. It provided a platform for the exchange of ideas, the latest research findings, and effective practices for stillbirth prevention.

Dr. Neelam Agarwal, President of SBSI, emphasized the critical need for enhanced maternal and neonatal healthcare to tackle stillbirths, stating, “Improving access to high-quality care is essential. We must work collectively to ensure every mother receives the necessary care and every baby is given a chance at life.”

Dr. Nuzhat Aziz, Vice President of SBSI and Head of Emergency Obstetrics at Fernandez Hospital, highlighted the emotional impact of stillbirths and the importance of a comprehensive approach. “Reducing stillbirth rates is about more than numbers; it’s about preventing the heartbreak of losing a child. Through innovative solutions and improved care, we can support families and reduce these rates.”

The conference also fostered collaborations between various stakeholders, aiming to drive policy changes, enhance community outreach, and build capacity to address stillbirths effectively. With India’s current stillbirth rate at approximately 13.9 per 1,000 births, significantly higher than the global average of 9, the conference underscored the urgency of collective action and the importance of shared strategies and support systems.

The 2nd Annual SBSI Conference reflects the ongoing commitment of FHERF and SBSI to improving maternal and newborn health outcomes across India. As the nation works towards its 2030 target, the insights and partnerships formed during this event will be crucial in shaping the future of maternal healthcare in India.