WHO: 260,000 Maternal Deaths in 2023, Urgent Action Needed

In 2023, over 260,000 women died from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth, averaging one death every two minutes, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa, which accounted for around 70% of these fatalities. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the global target to reduce maternal deaths to 71 per 100,000 by 2030 will be missed, as progress has significantly slowed, exacerbated by recent cuts to international aid, particularly from the US. These funding reductions threaten access to essential healthcare services and personnel, leading to a potential regression in maternal health outcomes. Common causes of maternal deaths include heavy bleeding, unsafe abortions, and pre-eclampsia, with regions experiencing humanitarian crises facing the highest risks. Despite a 40% global decline in maternal mortality since 2000, the situation remains dire in low-income countries without adequate healthcare resources. Health experts are calling for renewed commitment to maternal health funding to prevent further loss of life.