Imran Ali Ghouri
In the heart of a nation’s progress lies the well-being of its mothers and children. Ensuring the health of these fundamental pillars is not only a duty but a promise to a brighter future of Pakistan. Amidst the challenges that our beloved country is facing, the journey towards robust maternal and child health is a testament to hope, determination, and transformation.In Pakistan, maternal and child health remains a critical concern, with disparities evident between urban and rural areas. According to recent data, the maternal mortality rate in urban areas is estimated at 260 deaths per 100,000 live births, while ratio is nearly 26% higher in rural areas as compared to urban areas.
Similarly, the infant mortality rate stands at about60 per 1,000 live births.On the global stage, Pakistan still faces challenges. The country is committed to reducing maternal mortality ratiosignificantly. While strides have been made, Pakistan confronts various challenges in mother and child health. The shortage of skilled healthcare professionals, particularly in rural areas, hampers timely interventions. Access to prenatal care is hindered by socio-economic disparities, contributing to preventable maternal and infant deaths. Inadequate nutrition, low birth weight, and lack of awareness about safe birthing practices also contribute to the issue.Hope emerges from the innovative strategies and programs that have demonstrated a positive impact.
Programs like the Lady Health Worker (LHW) initiative have empowered women at the grassroots level, delivering essential maternal and child health services to underserved communities. Additionally, the government’s Sehat Sahulat Program (SSP) has widened access to healthcare services, easing the financial burden on families.However, the journey to improved mother and child health requires a multi-faceted approach. It is essential to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, to provide comprehensive prenatal care, and to promote education about safe birthing practices. Maternal and child health awareness campaigns must reach every corner of the country, dispelling myths and empowering women with knowledge.Immunization stands as a powerful tool in ensuring child health. Pakistan’s Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) has been making strides, with an estimated 76% of infants receiving basic vaccinations.. However, challenges remain in reaching remote areas and combating vaccine hesitancy. By addressing these hurdles, Pakistan can enhance its immunization coverage, guarding children against preventable diseases. Malnutrition perpetuates the cycle of poor health. Programs that focus on improving mother and child nutrition can break this cycle. Providing education on balanced diets, encouraging breastfeeding, and ensuringintake of good quality essential foods can significantly improve child health outcomes. Amidst all these challenges,
Pakistan still can take pride in its success stories. Lowering the rate of c-section births and converting them to normal births at certain hospitals such as Dr. Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital (ANTH) with facilities like enhanced recovery program and NICU have ensured safety of mother as well as the having the capabilities of handling of complex pregnancy cases where a mother with one kidney safely gave birth to a quadruplet. Such competences are helping in reducing maternal mortality and also enhancing the quality of maternal and child healthcare. While Pakistan navigates its path towards improved maternal and child health, the signs of progress are becoming increasingly visible. A growing number of health facilities, coupled with awareness campaigns, are equipping women with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed health decisions. By fostering collaboration between healthcare professionals, communities, and policymakers, Pakistan can ensure that every mother and child receives the care they deserve. In the nurturing embrace of these efforts, the future holds promise. The vision of a Pakistan where maternal and child health flourishes is taking us forward towards bolstering the healthcare sector. It is a future where mothers stand strong and children thrive, for a blissful nation.