Canadian Perinatal Health Report - 2008 EDITION

[Table of contents]

Message from the Chief Public Health Officer

The Public Health Agency of Canada was established to promote and protect the health of Canadians through leadership, partnership and action in public health, both nationally and worldwide. It is my role as Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer to uphold that mission, in part, by supporting federal efforts in surveillance and health reporting in order to communicate vital information on the health status of Canadians and on our public health system. To that end, I am pleased to present the 2008 edition of the Canadian Perinatal Health Report (PHR).

The PHR, through its 29 indicators, provides valuable data and information on a number of perinatal health determinants and outcomes which not only impact health programs at all levels, but also contribute to evidence-based policy-making; inform health professionals in clinical practice and research environments; and allow Canadians to examine our health in relation to other countries.

This report is one of several pan-Canadian initiatives resulting from a dynamic collaboration between the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Canadian Perinatal Surveillance System (CPSS) in areas of surveillance and scientific research on maternal and infant health. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the CPSS for their efforts in promoting the health, well-being and reduction of inequalities among pregnant women, mothers and infants in Canada. In addition to these contributions, the Canadian Perinatal Health Report, 2008 Edition, serves as an important resource tool that supports the Agency’s vision of healthier Canadians and communities in a healthier world.

Dr. David Butler-Jones
Chief Public Health Officer
Public Health Agency of Canada