Nigeria is one of the most populous countries in Africa, with an estimated population of over 211 million people. Despite this large population, Nigeria has a high maternal and child mortality rate. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria accounts for nearly 20% of global maternal deaths and has the fourth-highest maternal mortality rate in the world. The country also has one of the highest rates of under-five mortality in the world. This is a tragedy that requires urgent attention and action.
The causes of maternal and child mortality in Nigeria are complex and multifaceted. Factors such as poverty, lack of access to quality healthcare, poor nutrition, inadequate education, and cultural beliefs and practices all contribute to the high mortality rate. These issues are exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in parts of the country, which has led to the displacement of millions of people and disrupted healthcare services.
Maternal Mortality in Nigeria
Maternal mortality refers to the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth or within six weeks after delivery. According to the WHO, Nigeria has an estimated maternal mortality ratio of 512 per 100,000 live births. This means that for every 100,000 live births in Nigeria, 512 women die due to pregnancy-related complications. This is a staggering figure and one that needs urgent attention.
The causes of maternal mortality in Nigeria are varied and include inadequate access to healthcare services, poor nutrition, and cultural beliefs and practices. Many women in Nigeria give birth at home without the assistance of a skilled birth attendant, which increases the risk of complications during childbirth. In addition, many women do not receive adequate prenatal care, which can help identify and manage potential complications early on.
Child Mortality in Nigeria
Child mortality refers to the death of a child before their fifth birthday. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Nigeria has the second highest under-five mortality rate in the world, with an estimated 209,000 child deaths in 2019 alone. The main causes of child mortality in Nigeria are preventable diseases such as malaria, pneumonia, and diarrhea. Malnutrition is also a major contributing factor to child mortality in the country.
One of the major challenges in reducing child mortality in Nigeria is the lack of access to healthcare services. Many children in rural areas do not have access to basic healthcare services, and those who do may not receive adequate treatment due to a lack of trained healthcare professionals or medication.
The Way Forward
To reduce maternal and child mortality in Nigeria, a multi-pronged approach is needed. This approach should focus on improving access to healthcare services, addressing poverty and malnutrition, and educating communities on the importance of maternal and child health.
Improving access to healthcare services is crucial to reducing maternal and child mortality in Nigeria. This can be achieved by increasing the number of healthcare facilities in rural areas and ensuring that these facilities have the necessary equipment and trained healthcare professionals. Mobile clinics can also be used to reach remote communities.
Addressing poverty and malnutrition is another important step in reducing maternal and child mortality. This can be achieved through poverty alleviation programs and initiatives to improve food security. The government can also provide subsidies for essential commodities such as healthcare and food items to alleviate the financial burden on families.
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Finally, educating communities on the importance of maternal and child health is crucial in reducing mortality rates. This can be achieved through community-based programs that educate women on the importance of prenatal care, safe delivery practices, and proper nutrition. The government can also work with traditional leaders and religious institutions to promote these messages.
#Too Many Nigerian Women and Children are Dying.
