| what are major issues pertaining to maternal and child health, both in the US and developing countries? I know that different countries, and cultures within countries face different problems when it comes to maternal and child health issues. I would like to find out what you think is the most important issue that needs more attention from the government, Non-profits and IGO's. thanks! Women's Health - 1 Answers Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions : 1 : There are so many it's hard to know where to begin, and different countries have different issues. In the US, we have a significant gap in health care services for low-income people, women included. Many women without insurance delay prenatal care until the second or third trimester, which has an impact on birth outcomes-- specifically low-birth weight and pre-term birth. In other countries, sanitation is a big issue, especially clean water. It sounds very basic, but clean water is essential for good health, especially during pregnancy and for children. Famine is also a issue-- lack of water leads to famine as well. And, of course, lack of health care--- including the treatment of pre-existing conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure, contribute to both the maternal and infant death rates. Access to birth control for child-spacing is also a huge issue. Women who have children too close together compromise there own health, as well as the health of their babies. And since large families are the "norm" in some cultures, there is a lot of pressure to reproduce. Poor pregnancy planning is a culprit in many maternal and fetal deaths. And, the lack of birth control also leads to often unsafe and unsanitary abortions, which can cause damage and infection. Ridiculous policies advocating only "abstinence" and not protection from pregnancy and disease contribute to this as well. It's a vicious cycle, really. Of course, childhood vaccinations should be a priority everywhere, but unfortunately in many countries children are not routinely vaccinated. It's hard to say what the most important issue is for governments, since so many are inter-related, but it basically comes down to the value that society places on women and children. In cultures where women are viewed as lesser citizens, or as property, maternal health suffers, which results in poor birth outcomes. In societies where pressure is placed on women to have many children, which the family cannot afford, the health of the children suffers as well. It's a complicated world issue, that needs multiple solutions from both governments (all of them!) and non-profits, working in partnership with each other. Great, thought provoking question! |
