A survey designed to provide insights into the causes of under-five and maternal deaths in Bauchi State communities is being undertaken by the National Population Commission (NPC).
Federal Commissioner in Bauchi, Alhaji Ibrahim Muhammad Darazo at a press conference in Bauchi yesterday, said that the 2024 Nigeria Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) study is being conducted nationwide in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, Bauchi State.
He said the current round of VASA study is being built on previous efforts from 2014 and 2019 which provided valuable information that shaped health policies and intervention aimed at reducing preventable deaths.
The federal commissioner said the commission will be going back to the NDHS households to ask for information that will help the government understand and plan to address the biomedical and social causes of death of children under age five and for women of reproductive age.
“In Bauchi state, we have benefited from the strong collaboration between the NPC, FMOH, and our valued state 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.”
Darazo further explained that the study will collect essential data on both maternal and child mortality, focusing on the social and health-related factors that contribute to the tragic losses.
He added that the information will empower decision-makers to address the underlying issues that lead to deaths and will ultimately inform policies aimed at improving maternal and child health in the state and beyond.
Daraza further stated that the fieldwork for the study will be conducted in selected communities throughout the state between November 4, to December 15, 2024.
“Our trained data collectors will visit households to conduct interviews with family members, gathering information that will help us understand the circumstances surrounding maternal and child deaths. This sensitive but essential process requires the cooperation and support of every individual and community,” Daraza said.
He recognised the vital role that traditional and community leaders play in mobilising community support and facilitating the smooth conduct of activities like the VASA study.
NPC called on revered leaders to lend their voices in support of this study, encouraging their communities to welcome the interviewers and participate fully in the process.
“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,” the commissioner called.
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