MATERNAL MORTALITY FORECASTING FOR SOLOMON ISLANDS USING THE DOUBLE EXPONENTIAL SMOOTHING METHOD
Keywords:
Exponential smoothing, Forecasting, Maternal Mortality Ratio.Abstract
This study uses annual time series data on MMR for Solomon Islands from 1985 to 2023 to predict future trends of MMR over the period 2024 to 2035. The study utilizes Holt’s double exponential smoothing model. The optimal values of smoothing constants α and β are 0.6 and 0.1 respectively based on minimum MSE. The results of the study indicate that MMR will continue on a downward path to reach around 101 deaths per 100 000 live births by 2035. Therefore, we encourage authorities to tirelessly address local drivers of preventable maternal deaths and focus on quality improvement initiatives.
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