Comparisons of data from regional perinatal mortality surveys.

The standard format in which NHS regions are invited to submit data from their perinatal mortality surveys for comparative analysis in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology is described. Some examples of the way these data can and will be used to compare regional differences in mortality patterns are given and possible future developments are discussed. Although the term perinatal mortality is used in the title, it is hoped that surveys will cover stillbirths and neonatal deaths and also, where possible, late fetal deaths of less than 28 weeks gestation.