Every 7 seconds a woman or newborn dies from health complications, according to a new report from the World Health Organization.
Maternal and newborn health worldwide continues to be affected by complex global issues that seem to make positive care outcomes more challenging each year, according to the report. At least 60 countries are not on pace to meet the goals related to maternal, newborn and stillborn mortality outlined in the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which include:
- "By 2030, reduce the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births."
- "By 2030, end preventable deaths of newborns and children under five years of age, with all countries aiming to reduce neonatal mortality to at least as low as 12 per 1,000 live births and under-5 mortality to at least as low as 25 per 1,000 live births."
- "By 2030, reach 12 or fewer stillbirths per 1,000 total births in all countries and continue to close equity gaps."
Globally, while some progress has been made throughout the last decades, much of that progress slowed with the onset of COVID-19, increasing challenges presented by climate change, poverty and other factors.
Overall, "preventable maternal deaths, stillbirths and newborn deaths remain extraordinarily high," the WHO report points out.
"Accelerating progress towards these targets demands a concerted effort by all stakeholders, including governments, health organizations and communities to implement effective MNH strategies and interventions, particularly at subnational levels," the report urges. "While each country will have different challenges and priorities, commitment and investments to ensure quality primary health care for all pregnant women, mothers and newborns, sufficient numbers of skilled providers, and access to care in the crucial 24 hours around birth are nonnegotiable requirements for all settings. "
The U.S. is not immune to these challenges. In March, the nationwide maternal mortality rate hit a 58-year-high. Simultaneously, the OB-GYN shortage is worsening, and maternal care deserts are growing as a result.