NEWS – Rise in Stillbirths Reported in Five Karnataka Districts

HIGHLIGHTS

What is a stillbirth? A stillbirth is when a foetus dies after the 20th week of pregnancy.   

Alarming Trend in State Data

• Government health data reveals a rise in stillbirths across five districts of Karnataka.
• Overall state stillbirth rate: 3.41 per 1,000 births, with some districts recording up to 9.30 per 1,000 births.
• Haveri tops the list, followed by Dharwad, Chamarajanagar, Gadag, and Mysuru.

Urban Areas Worse Affected

• Stillbirths higher in urban areas (7.28%) compared to rural areas (0.19%).
• In 2024–25: 9.91 lakh births recorded; of these, 3,244 stillbirths reported (3,145 urban, 99 rural).
• In contrast, 2020 data showed lower rates (5.24% urban vs 2.11% rural).

Districts Showing Sudden Rise

• Previously low-incidence districts such as Mysuru, Chikkamagaluru, Bengaluru Rural, Ballari, and Davangere have reported an unexpected increase over the past 3–4 years.

Medical Causes Identified

• Major causes in 2024:
  • Birth-related stress – 518 cases
  • Breathing issues during delivery – 368
  • Slow fetal growth – 239
  • Strenuous work during pregnancy – 173
  • Lifestyle & health factors – High BP, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
  • Delayed hospital arrival & refusal of C-section also linked to fatal outcomes.