FORECASTING MATERNAL MORTALITY FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM USING THE DOUBLE EXPONENTIAL SMOOTHING TECHNIQUE

Authors

  • Smartson. P. NYONI Independent Researcher & Medical Doctor, Harare, Zimbabwe Author
  • Thabani NYONI Independent Researcher & Health Economist, Harare, Zimbabwe Author

Keywords:

Exponential smoothing, Forecasting, Maternal Mortality Ratio

Abstract

This study uses annual time series data on MMR for the United Kingdom (UK) 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 0.8 and 0.1 respectively based on minimum MSE. The results of the study indicate that MMR will remain low over the out of sample period. Therefore, we encourage authorities to relentlessly address local causes of maternal deaths and continue routine surveillance of severe maternal morbidity.

References

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2.Khan K.S., Wojdyla D., Say L., Gülmezoglu A.M. and Van Look P.F (2006). WHO analysis of causes of maternal death: a systematic review. The lancet, 367(9516), pp.1066-1074.

3.Li X.F., Fortney J.A., Kotelchuck M. and Glover, L.H (1996). The postpartum period: the key to maternal mortality. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 54(1), pp.1-10.

4.WBG (2023). Maternal mortality ratio (modeled estimate, per 100,000 live births) 2023.World Bank Open Data. Available: https://data.worldbank.org

5.WHO (2020). Maternal Mortality. Available: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact sheets/detail/Maternal-mortality.

6.WHO (2023). Trends in maternal mortality 2000 to 2020: estimates by Who, UNICEF, Unfpa, World Bank GSroup and UNDESA/Population Division. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2023. Licence: CCBY-NC SA3.0IGO

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Published

2026-10-12

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Section

Articles

How to Cite

FORECASTING MATERNAL MORTALITY FOR THE UNITED KINGDOM USING THE DOUBLE EXPONENTIAL SMOOTHING TECHNIQUE. (2026). Modern American Journal of Medical and Health Sciences, 2(10), 33-41. https://usajournals.org/index.php/1/article/view/2770