According to a progress report published by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and UNFPA, Pakistan ranks third among the top 10 countries with the highest number of maternal deaths, neonatal mortality, and stillbirths in 2020.
The report titled “Improving maternal and newborn health and survival and reducing stillbirth — the progress report 2023” reveals a total of 4.5 million deaths, including 0.29 million maternal deaths, 1.9 million stillbirths, and 2.3 million newborn deaths.
Sub-Saharan Africa and Central and Southern Asia are the regions experiencing the largest number of deaths, although progress varies across countries in achieving the global 2030 targets.
The top 10 countries with the highest burden account for 60% of global maternal deaths, stillbirths, and newborn deaths, and 51% of the world’s live births.
India leads the list, followed by Nigeria, Pakistan, Congo, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Afghanistan, and Tanzania.
In Pakistan, the total maternal deaths, stillbirths, and neonatal deaths in 2020 amounted to 474,000. Maternal deaths accounted for 10% of the total, while stillbirths and neonatal deaths accounted for 44% and 46% respectively. There were 10,000 maternal deaths, 207,000 stillbirths, and 257,000 neonatal deaths.
The COVID-19 pandemic further affected maternal and newborn health services, leading to a decline in antenatal care visits, facility births, and postnatal care.
However, Pakistan developed policies, guidelines, and plans to address these challenges and ensure the continuation of essential health services during and post-COVID-19.
The progress report emphasizes that global progress in reducing maternal and newborn deaths and stillbirths has slowed in the past decade. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, conflicts, and rising living costs have the potential to further hinder progress in this area.
Urgent action and increased investment are required to accelerate progress and meet maternal and newborn health targets.