We can and must end preventable maternal deaths, UNFPA Executive Director says on World Health Day

In a statement marking World Health Day on 7 April, UNFPA Executive Director Dr Natalia Kanem emphasised the need to end preventable maternal deaths globally, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges in maternal healthcare.

In a press release, Dr Kanem noted that, while women's health during pregnancy and childbirth has improved significantly due to medical advances and greater reproductive autonomy, disparities in maternal mortality rates still exist, especially in the most vulnerable regions. 

Since 2000, global maternal mortality has decreased by 40 per cent, and for the first time, no country is estimated to have an 'extremely high' maternal mortality rate of over 1,000 deaths per 100,000 live births.

"Globally, women's health during pregnancy and childbirth is better than ever before. This is owing to medical advances, and because more women have control over their reproductive choices and can access respectful, high-quality maternal care," Dr Kanem said.

However, Dr Kanem pointed out that these gains are fragile, with significant disparities remaining. In conflict-affected countries, women are twice as likely – or more – to die from pregnancy and childbirth complications compared to the global average. 

"Where health systems are weak or protracted crises take root, maternal mortality rates stagnate or even increase," she explained.

While more births today occur in healthcare facilities, Dr Kanem stressed that the quality of care remains inconsistent. Research indicates that poor-quality care is responsible for half of maternal deaths. Shortages of essential medicines, equipment, and skilled personnel continue to affect many health systems, exacerbating the situation.

Dr Kanem also highlighted how discrimination and inequities, particularly based on location, income, race, and ethnicity, deprive women of both reproductive choices and adequate maternal care. "Even in the wealthiest countries, which have high healthcare standards on average, rates of maternal mortality are disproportionately higher among marginalised groups," she said.

Despite these challenges, Dr Kanem expressed optimism, stating, "We can and must end preventable maternal deaths. We know what works and why."

She pointed out that midwives play a critical role in saving lives. "Midwives save lives. Expanded midwifery care can detect risks and manage complications while reducing costs. Despite evidence that universal access to these professionals could avert two thirds of maternal and newborn deaths and stillbirths, there is a global shortfall of nearly 1 million midwives."

Dr Kanem called for stronger political commitments, adequate financial resources, and supportive laws to make a lasting difference.