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Health

Women & Children's Health

Last updated on 23 September 2008

Women and children suffer a disproportionate share of the burden of diseases in developing countries. Issues such as sexual and reproductive health, family planning, safe motherhood, immunisation and vaccinations, and nutrition are closely linked to child and maternal mortality rates. More than 500,000 women die each year from maternal causes such as post partum haemorrhage, and for every woman who dies, approximately 20 more suffer injuries, infection and disabilities in pregnancy or childbirth. The ability to plan the number, spacing, and timing of births is a fundamental right of couples, as is access to a range of contraceptive methods and information.

Every year, some 9.7 million children die globally before their fifth birthday due to malnutrition and disease. 2 million die from pneumonia each year yet these diseases could easily be prevented or treated with antibiotics for pneumonia; a simple mix of salts and sugars for diarrhoea; administration of immunisation protocols; treatments for iodine and vitamin a deficiency.

Gender inequality continues globally but efforts to mainstream gender policy planning so that health care systems can respond adequately are increasing. Follow the links below for a range of resources addressing these issues.