Maternal health in Afghanistan amidst current crises – A neglected concern

Introduction

In the recent past, due to the pandemic and humanitarian crisis, the healthcare system has dived into turmoil, especially regarding core facilities for women and maternal health. Afghanistan has the highest maternal mortality rate globally according to the WHO.

Methodology

Extensive research was performed regarding maternal health crises in Afghanistan using appropriate keywords. The inclusion criteria were case reports, case studies, systematic reviews and original articles in English.

Implications of current crises on the problem

In such a decrepit system, regime changes resulted in major donors withdrawing from the national primary care service program leading to serious consequences for Afghani.

Challenges

Major challenges faced by the Afghan healthcare system include the cessation of international funding due to the humanitarian crisis, the shortage of medicines and the failure to deliver salaries to healthcare workers. More than 90% of healthcare facilities are at risk of closure, leading to an estimated 4.8 million unattended pregnancies and 51,000 maternal deaths between 2021 and 2025.

Current efforts

To ensure such a catastrophe does not arise, the World Bank, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and UNFPA in collaboration with governments around the world have pledged aid, both monetary and in terms of equipment & resources to Afghanistan.

Recommendations

Local Afghan organizations such as the AHDS and JACK must also be supported to further their work in providing healthcare services.

Conclusion

The health system in Afghanistan, particularly maternal health, has suffered greatly in the last two years and therefore, if no aid or funding is provided, a disaster is bound to occur.