A recent global analysis has revealed that pregnant women and new mothers are still dying at alarming rates worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 287,000 maternal deaths occurred in 2020, with nearly all of these deaths happening in low-income countries in sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia. The most common causes of these deaths include haemorrhage, preeclampsia, high blood pressure, infections, and sepsis.
The study, published in the Lancet Global Health journal, highlighted the importance of access to quality medical care and the need for more coordination between different parts of the health system to prevent these deaths. Joyce Browne, an associate professor of global health, emphasized that maternal deaths are a reflection of broader health, societal, and political issues.
Despite the challenges, some progress has been made in recent decades, with 69 countries reducing their maternal mortality rates by at least half since the year 2000. The WHO noted that investing in interventions and solutions to address maternal health issues is crucial to prevent these deaths from occurring again.
The study also underscored the need for better health systems in lower-income countries and highlighted the importance of addressing social determinants of health. While there have been improvements in maternal health outcomes, more work needs to be done to ensure the safety and well-being of pregnant women and new mothers around the world.
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