The “2024 zero dsr” refers to the goal of reducing preventable maternal deaths to zero by 2024. DSR stands for “direct obstetric deaths,” which are deaths resulting from complications during pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period. The World Health Organization (WHO) launched this initiative to address the unacceptably high number of maternal deaths, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Maternal deaths are a significant public health concern, with an estimated 287,000 women dying from pregnancy-related causes in 2020. The vast majority of these deaths are preventable, resulting from inadequate healthcare, lack of access to essential services, and social and economic factors that limit women’s ability to access care. Achieving the “2024 zero dsr” goal requires a comprehensive approach that addresses these underlying factors and strengthens health systems to provide quality maternal care.