In 2015, the world set ambitious Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end preventable maternal and infant deaths by 2030. Despite progress made in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in many regions, a silent crisis is brewing in countries where progress has stalled or even reversed.
Maternal mortality remains a significant issue in many parts of the world, with an estimated 287,000 women dying from pregnancy-related causes each year. Most of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, where access to quality healthcare is often limited.
Infant mortality is also a major concern, with an estimated 5.2 million children under the age of 5 dying each year. The majority of these deaths are preventable and occur due to conditions such as pneumonia, diarrhea, and malaria.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the challenges of maternal and infant health, disrupting healthcare systems and making it more difficult for women and children to access essential services. As a result, maternal and infant mortality rates are projected to increase in many parts of the world.
To avoid a silent crisis in maternal and infant health, it is crucial for governments, healthcare providers, and communities to work together to address the underlying causes of these deaths. This includes:
* Investing in quality healthcare systems that provide women and children with access to essential services, including prenatal care, skilled birth attendance, and postnatal care.
* Ensuring that women have access to family planning services to prevent unintended pregnancies and reduce the risk of maternal complications.
* Improving nutrition and sanitation conditions to reduce the risk of preventable diseases like pneumonia and diarrhea.
* Addressing the social determinants of health, such as poverty, gender inequality, and lack of education, which can contribute to maternal and infant mortality.
* Strengthening health systems to respond to emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic and ensure that essential services remain available even during times of crisis.
By taking these steps, we can help to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates and ensure that every woman and child has the opportunity to live a healthy and fulfilling life. The time to act is now to avoid a silent crisis in maternal and infant health..
