WHO Warns of Aid Cuts Jeopardizing Progress in Ending Maternal Deaths

Key Insights:

• The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning that cuts in aid for maternal health could reverse the progress made in reducing maternal deaths.
• Maternal deaths have decreased by 38% since 2000, but this progress is at risk due to funding cuts and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The WHO is calling for increased investment in maternal health to ensure that progress continues and more lives are saved.
• Maternal deaths are preventable and investing in maternal health not only saves lives but also has positive impacts on the health and well-being of families and communities.

What is at Stake?

Every year, approximately 295,000 women die from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. These deaths are largely preventable with access to quality healthcare and skilled birth attendants. However, funding cuts and disruptions in healthcare services due to the pandemic are putting the lives of pregnant women at risk.

The Call for Action

The WHO is urging governments and donors to prioritize maternal health and increase funding to ensure that progress in reducing maternal deaths continues. This includes investing in healthcare systems, training healthcare workers, and providing essential maternal health services.

In Conclusion

The progress made in reducing maternal deaths is at risk due to funding cuts and disruptions caused by the pandemic. The WHO is calling for increased investment in maternal health to save lives and improve the health and well-being of families and communities. It is crucial for governments and donors to prioritize maternal health and ensure that progress continues towards ending preventable maternal deaths.