Loss of funding could undo progress in reducing deaths in pregnancy and childbirth, especially in war zones, says UN

Summary

UN agencies warn that global aid cuts, particularly from wealthy countries like the U.S., could cause a surge in maternal deaths, with effects comparable to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maternal mortality fell 40% from 2000 to 2023 but progress has stalled, with 260,000 deaths last year. Cuts have led to clinic closures, job losses, and medicine shortages.

Conflict zones remain most at risk. Poor countries face maternal death rates 35 times higher than rich nations.

WHO calls for urgent investment in midwives, healthcare workers, and sustained global funding to prevent further setbacks.

  • henfredemars@infosec.pubEnglish
    51·
    1 day ago

    I don’t think they were specifically targeting women with this move, but they would be happy to know that it also hurts women especially hard.