A recent research from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) highlights the global challenges in reducing maternal fatalities, stillbirths, and infant mortality. The report shows that, in 2020-2021, there were a combined 4.5 million deaths of this kind, with India leading a list of 10 countries that account for 60% of the total.
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India’s high number of live births is believed to be a factor in its large number of maternal, stillbirth, and neonatal deaths, with the country accounting for 17% of global live births. Nigeria, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and China are also among the nations with the highest rates of maternal, stillbirth, and neonatal deaths.
Slowdown in Progress:
The report also revealed that the global progress in reducing maternal and newborn deaths, and stillbirths, has slowed in the last decade, with gains made between 2000 and 2010 happening at a faster pace than since 2010. The reasons for this slowdown need to be determined and addressed to improve outcomes for women and newborns.
Insufficient Healthcare Access:
The regions with the highest rates of newborn and maternal deaths, Sub-Saharan Africa and Central and Southern Asia, are also the regions where fewer than 60% of women receive the recommended four antenatal checks from the WHO. To enhance women's and babies' survival rates, access to excellent and accessible healthcare, family planning services, and skilled and motivated health workers, particularly midwives, is required.
Targeting Vulnerable Populations:
The report also stressed that interventions should particularly target the poorest and most vulnerable women who are most likely to miss out on lifesaving care, including through subnational planning and investments.
Addressing Gender Norms and Inequalities:
The report also highlighted the need to address harmful gender norms, biases, and inequalities to improve maternal and newborn health. Overall, the report emphasises the need to accelerate progress in reducing maternal, infant, and stillbirth fatalities, with a focus on equitable access to excellent healthcare and gender disparities.
