India Leads List of 10 Countries with 60% of Global Maternal Deaths, Stillbirths, and Newborn Deaths: UN Study

A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has highlighted the challenges faced in reducing maternal deaths, stillbirths, and newborn deaths globally. The report shows that, in 2020-2021, there were a combined 4.5 million deaths of this kind, with India leading a list of 10 countries that account for 60% of the total.

India’s high number of live births is believed to be a factor in its large number of maternal, stillbirth, and neonatal deaths, with the country accounting for 17% of global live births. Nigeria, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and China also feature on the list of countries with the highest rates of maternal, stillbirth, and neonatal deaths.

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Slowdown in Progress:

The report also revealed that the global progress in reducing maternal and newborn deaths, and stillbirths, has slowed in the last decade, with gains made between 2000 and 2010 happening at a faster pace than since 2010. The reasons for this slowdown need to be determined and addressed to improve outcomes for women and newborns.

Insufficient Healthcare Access:

The regions with the highest rates of newborn and maternal deaths, Sub-Saharan Africa and Central and Southern Asia, are also the regions where fewer than 60% of women receive the recommended four antenatal checks from the WHO. Access to quality and affordable healthcare, family planning services, and skilled and motivated health workers, particularly midwives, are necessary to improve survival rates for women and babies.

Targeting Vulnerable Populations:

The report also stressed that interventions should particularly target the poorest and most vulnerable women who are most likely to miss out on lifesaving care, including through subnational planning and investments.

Addressing Gender Norms and Inequalities:

The report also highlighted the need to address harmful gender norms, biases, and inequalities to improve maternal and newborn health. Overall, the report underscores the need to accelerate progress in reducing maternal and newborn deaths and stillbirths, with a focus on equitable access to quality healthcare and addressing gender disparities.

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