Since 1990 the reported maternal and perinatal mortality rates have shown further declines. The commonest cause of maternal death is haemorrhage followed by toxaemia of pregnancy and sepsis. The overall prevalence rate for leprosy has declined significantly to 0.5 per 10,000 population in 1996. The number of TB patients registered for therapy stabilized at 45,000 in 1995. The rate of drug resistance is also rising.
Lymphatic filariasis is still an important health problem in certain areas of Thailand.
Control activities have been integrated into the local health services. There are a number of programmes and activities for the treatment of common diseases. These are based on the standard management procedures laid down by WHO or by national consensus. Improved referral systems are being developed and the concept of self-care actively promoted.