In 2005, the latest year for which firm estimates are available, an estimated 536,000 women died from causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Almost all – 95 per cent – of these maternal deaths occurred in Africa and Asia.

Africa is the continent with the highest rate of maternal mortality, estimated at 820 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 2005. Asia’s rate of maternal death is 350 per 100,000 live births.