On the occasion of World Health Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) has voiced deep concern over Pakistan’s high rates of maternal and newborn mortality, urging immediate and targeted interventions to prevent avoidable deaths.
According to the WHO, every day in Pakistan, 675 newborns and 27 mothers die from preventable complications, resulting in an estimated 9,800 maternal deaths and over 246,000 newborn fatalities annually. Additionally, more than 190,000 stillbirths are reported each year across the country.
In line with this year’s global theme, "My Health, My Right", WHO reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside Pakistani health authorities to ensure access to high-quality healthcare for all, particularly mothers and children.
Dr. Palitha Mahipala, WHO Representative in Pakistan, stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “Healthy mothers and children form the foundation of a nation’s future. Without effective action to save their lives, the consequences could be dire.”
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Despite some progress over the years, Pakistan still lags behind global health targets. Maternal mortality has dropped from 276 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2006 to 155 in 2024. Similarly, the neonatal mortality rate has declined from 52 to 37.6 per 1,000 live births. The rate of stillbirths has also seen a downward trend. However, WHO warned that without additional investment, Pakistan will fall short of achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to reduce maternal deaths to 70 per 100,000 and neonatal deaths to 12 per 1,000 live births.
One of the major health concerns highlighted by WHO is anemia, which affects 41.7% of Pakistani women of reproductive age. The organization emphasized the need to enhance women’s access to sexual and reproductive health services, family planning, mental health care, and economic opportunities.
To improve long-term health outcomes, WHO called for increased investment in several key areas:
WHO reiterated that strengthening maternal and child health in Pakistan is essential not only to save lives but also to secure a brighter and healthier future for the nation.
