Prenatal maternal-fetal imaging for global health radiology

The state of maternal-fetal health in the developing world remains appalling despite growing global attention. Since the adoption of the Millennium Development goals, there has been increased deployment of resources towards this issue with little improvement. Examination of the published epidemiologic data from around the world reveals unique characteristics and dissimilarities of these countries with high maternal mortality. In this chapter, we carefully examine some of the causes of morbidity and mortality in the mother, fetus or both, with special attention to those that can be diagnosed by imaging, specifically, by ultrasonography. We discuss how regional, legal and sociopolitical customs in target communities may impact the practice of prenatal ultrasonography and how obstetric imaging may play a crucial role in potentially reducing maternal and perinatal mortality. With increasing availability of ultrasonography, careful use of prenatal imaging, coupled with other social and educational changes, could lead to improved maternal-fetal outcomes and achievement of Millennium Development Goals 4 and 5.