On World Health Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) is urging immediate action to ensure all mothers and newborns receive proper care. WHO’s campaign, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” calls on countries to prioritize high-quality health care for mothers and babies.
The Western Pacific region has seen a 29% reduction in maternal mortality over the past 13 years, with 35 mothers dying per 100,000 births in 2023, compared to 49 in 2010. Despite this progress, preventable deaths continue to affect families.
“Pregnancy and childbirth should be joyous, but too many end in tragedy,” said Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. “Every mother and baby deserves the highest quality of care for their survival.”
While most countries in the region now have skilled health personnel attending 98% of births, the focus must shift to improving care quality, especially in vulnerable areas. Some regions still lack basic maternal healthcare services and need urgent support to build infrastructure.
Dr. Piukala emphasized the importance of creating safe, supportive environments for mothers and empowering health workers with training and supplies. Health authorities must also invest in accessible, well-stocked care facilities to improve outcomes.
“We are making progress, but we must do more to ensure safe, high-quality care for all mothers and newborns,” Dr. Piukala concluded. “Every mother and baby deserves a healthy beginning and a hopeful future.”
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