The World Health Organization (WHO) released a new study revealing that hemorrhage and hypertensive disorders like preeclampsia are the leading causes of maternal deaths globally. The study, published in The Lancet Global Health, highlights that these conditions accounted for 80,000 and 50,000 fatalities respectively in 2020.
According to the study, nearly a quarter of pregnancy and childbirth-related mortality is underpinned by other health conditions such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, anemias, and diabetes. These conditions often go undetected or untreated until major complications arise, posing risks to millions of women worldwide.
Dr. Pascale Allotey, Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research at WHO, emphasized the importance of understanding the reasons behind maternal deaths to address the crisis and improve women’s chances of surviving childbirth. She highlighted the need for high-quality, evidence-based healthcare before, during, and after delivery to prevent and treat underlying conditions that endanger women’s health.
In 2020, there were an estimated 287,000 maternal deaths globally, with hemorrhage and preeclampsia being major contributors. The study underscores the necessity of strengthening maternity care, including early detection of risks during pregnancy, managing critical birth-related emergencies, and providing postnatal care.
Dr. Jenny Cresswell, a Scientist at WHO, emphasized the significance of a holistic approach to maternal health to ensure women have a healthy pregnancy, safe delivery, and lasting quality of life post-delivery. The study also called for more data on maternal suicide and late maternal deaths, highlighting the need for improved follow-up care and mental health support for women after childbirth.
WHO is working to enhance access to high-quality maternal healthcare through evidence-based research and guidelines. Initiatives like the Roadmap for Postpartum Hemorrhage and the World Health Assembly’s Resolution on strengthening quality care during childbirth aim to reduce maternal mortality and improve women’s health globally.
As World Health Day 2025 approaches, the focus will be on maternal and newborn health, urging for intensified efforts to provide high-quality care for women and babies, especially in low-income countries and crisis settings. The campaign will also advocate for broader attention to women’s health, including postnatal care and support, to ensure better outcomes for mothers and babies worldwide.
