FOGSI-FIGO international conference on clinical challenges in obstetrics and gynaecology that began here on Saturday is focusing on sustainable goals on safe motherhood, new borns' health, gynae care and gynaecologic oncology.

Over 1,500 delegates are attending the three-day conference being organised jointly by the Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Societies of India (FOGSI) and the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO)."Well being has always been the priority of our specialisation. Our aim at this conference is to devise sustainable development goals to enhance quality and inject steps forward in tackling women healthcare," said S. Shantha Kumari, Organising Secretary, FOGSI-FIGO.FIGO President C.N. Purandare said the conference is discussing reduction in maternal mortality, family planning and cancer of the cervix which are extremely important in this region and in Africa.

He said while the spacing is very important to reduce maternal mortality, cancer of the cervix is completely preventable if one can look at prevention rather than cure which FIGO is actively promoting.Gender violence is also a concern that is being dealt by the organisation through various awareness campaigns. This year FOGSI-FIGO is organising a bikethon to raise awareness. 

Prevention of female mutilation is also among the important issues that are being addressed.Though there has been concern about high cesarean section rates in India which is 17 per cent, FIGO is of the view that cesarean section rates depend on the condition of patients.FOGSI President Rishma D. Pai in her address said the meet will discuss ways to strengthen abortion laws in the country.There will also be a discussion on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) which has become an epidemic as almost 35 per cent young girls suffer from it.