Initial commitment of $6 million dedicated to addressing growing U.S. problem Merck (NYSE: MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, today announced that Merck for Mothers has launched programs aimed at decreasing the number of women across the United States who die from or suffer severe complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. The maternal mortality rate in this country has nearly doubled since 1990, despite significant progress in reducing rates globally. In addition, more than 50,000 women a year in the United States – one every 10 minutes – nearly die from a severe complication they experience during pregnancy or childbirth. “The rate of maternal mortality is increasing here in the United States. The tragedy is that many of these deaths are actually preventable,” said Kenneth C. Frazier, chairman and chief executive officer, Merck. “Merck is working with partners around the globe to help improve the situation everywhere, including in the
November 19, 2013
