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The number of infant deaths in Tiruchi district has decreased in the past year due to better medical follow-ups and pregnancy management, though reducing the high maternal mortality ratio (MMR) remains an ongoing challenge for health authorities.According to data released by the District Health Office recently, out of the total of 30,930 live births in Tiruchi in 2025-2026 (until March), 293 infant deaths were reported.In comparison, out of 30,716 live births in 2024-2025, 321 infant deaths were reported.Officials attributed the decrease in infant mortality to a combination of factors such as efficient screening and antenatal health management.There is a concerted effort to bring down the number of maternal deaths in the district as well. The MMR was reported at 45.3 per one lakh live births, with 14 maternal deaths in 2025-2026 (until March).“We are working towards ensuring a drastic decrease in the number of maternal deaths in Tiruchi district this year, with greater attention to be given to pregnant women and those with health risks. There have been no maternal deaths in the past four months, and we hope to keep the sensitisation drives active throughout the year,” District Health Officer T. Manivannan told The Hindu.Teen pregnanciesRegarding the high incidence of teenage pregnancies in the district (reportedly around 800 cases between April to November 2025), the official said that the issue is a complicated social problem.“Teenage pregnancies can occur in legally sanctioned marriages and also out of wedlock. We need to create awareness about the impact of early and unplanned pregnancies on the health of young women. Public cooperation will play an important role in curbing the problem,” he said. Published - June 04, 2026 04:49 pm IST
