NPC flags off autopsy study to tackle maternal, child mortality in Osun

The Federal Commissioner, representing Osun State at the National Population Commission, NPC, Dr Amidu Raheem Tadese, has reiterated the Commission’s resolve to tackle the menace of maternal and child mortality in the state.

This was as he promised that necessary information needed in reducing preventable causes of maternal and child mortality in the state would be provided by the Commission.

Tadese said this on Monday at the flagged-off 2024 Nigeria Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) Study in Osogbo, Osun State capital, held at the commission’s auditorium hall.

He said the NPC would continue to partner and collaborate with relevant authorities and agencies, particularly the Federal Ministry of Health, to tackle the menace.

Speaking during the event held at the Osun State NPC Secretariat, Osogbo, Tadese explained that the study was designed to provide insights into the causes of under-five and maternal deaths in the communities.

He added that the study is being carried out nationwide in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health to provide valuable information that could further shape national health policies and interventions aimed at reducing preventable deaths.

He said, “In Osun State, we have benefitted from the strong collaboration between the National Population Commission, the Federal Ministry of Health, and our valuable partners to successfully implement health-related projects in the past, and we are confident that this collaboration will once again ensure success for the VASA study.

“This study will collect essential data on both maternal and child mortality, focusing on the social and health-related factors that contribute to these tragic losses. This information will empower decision-makers to address the underlying issues that lead to these unnecessary deaths and will ultimately inform policies aimed at improving maternal and child health in the state and beyond.

“Field work for this study will be conducted in selected communities throughout the state between 4th November to 15th December 2024.”

He stated that the NPC’s trained data collectors would be visiting households to conduct interviews with family members, urging residents of the state to cooperate with the officials.

“These sensitive but essential processes require the cooperation and support of every individual and community. We recognise the vital role that traditional and community leaders play in mobilising community support and facilitating the smooth conduct of activities like the VASA study.

“We call on our revered leaders to lend their voices in support of this study, encouraging their communities to welcome the interviewers and participate fully in the process. Your leadership is invaluable in ensuring that this study is well-received and that the information gathered reflects the experiences and challenges within our communities.

“Additionally, we urge the public to cooperate with our interviewers. They are here to listen, gather, and document your experiences with the utmost respect and confidentiality. In sharing your experiences and welcoming our data collection teams, you are contributing directly to a project aimed at preventing unnecessary losses in our communities and securing a healthier future for our families,” he added.

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