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New Delhi: On World Health Day, observed annually on April 7, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted significant strides made by the South-East Asia region in maternal and child health. Since 2010, the region has recorded a remarkable 53% reduction in the maternal mortality ratio (MMR), marking a milestone in global health improvement efforts.
Saima Wazed, Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia, lauded the region’s progress, noting that it achieved the highest reduction in maternal, newborn, and child mortality rates compared to other WHO regions and the global average. Key achievements include:
– A 44% reduction in neonatal mortality rate (NMR).
– A 39% reduction in stillbirth rate (SBR).
– A 49% reduction in under-five mortality rate (U5MR).
For the first time, the region reported an MMR of below 100 per 100,000 live births, currently standing at 96. Between 2016 and 2023, maternal mortality decreased by an average of 5.1% annually—more than three times the global reduction rate.
Persistent Challenges Despite Progress
Despite these advancements, Wazed emphasized that maternal and newborn deaths remain a pressing issue. Approximately 2,700 mothers and 45,000 newborns die each month in the region, alongside an estimated 34,600 stillbirths. The majority of these deaths are preventable, highlighting gaps in healthcare coverage, quality of interventions, and socio-economic factors.
Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from all stakeholders to ensure universal access to evidence-based healthcare services. Wazed advocated for strengthening Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and primary healthcare systems to provide inclusive and equitable care.
A Generational Impact
Under the theme “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures,” this year’s World Health Day focused on maternal and newborn health for the first time since 2005. Wazed underscored how improving maternal and child health has ripple effects across generations: “Our health begins before birth… When we improve the health of our people today, the effects ripple across time and uplift generations yet unborn.”
The Path Forward
The WHO called for greater investment in healthcare systems to eliminate preventable deaths and ensure healthy beginnings for all. By boosting UHC and strengthening primary care infrastructure, South-East Asia can sustain its progress while addressing persistent challenges.
**Disclaimer:** This article is based on information provided by WHO as reported by *The Hans India*. For further details or updates on this topic, please refer to official sources or consult healthcare professionals.
Citations:
[1] https://www.thehansindia.com/life-style/health/south-east-asia-recorded-53pc-reduction-in-maternal-mortality-ratio-since-2010-who-960647
