A new WHO report highlights that nearly two-thirds of all maternal deaths occur in countries experiencing conflict and instability, severely impacting women's health.
A report released by the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that almost 66% of all maternal deaths globally take place in nations afflicted by conflict or fragility. Women residing in these troubled regions face a staggering five-fold increased risk of dying from maternal causes compared to their counterparts in stable countries. This disproportionate mortality rate underscores the pressing need to address healthcare vulnerabilities in war-torn and unstable areas.
In 2023 alone, an estimated 160,000 women lost their lives due to preventable maternal causes in these fragile environments, representing six out of ten maternal deaths worldwide. Notably, despite such a high percentage of deaths, countries experiencing conflict only accounted for about 10% of global live births. This stark contrast highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve maternal health services in conflict-affected settings.
The WHO's report also emphasizes the systemic issues that exacerbate health risks for pregnant women in unstable regions, including deteriorating healthcare systems, lack of access to essential medical services, and the overall impact of crises on health infrastructures. These findings call for an international focus on strengthening healthcare delivery to protect women's lives during times of war and instability, as addressing these disparities is crucial for achieving global maternal health goals.
