Obstetrician and gynecologist, Dr. Zeenat Abdullahi, Monday mentioned for Nigeria’s combat in opposition to baby mortality to be significant, maternal healthcare have to be prioritised.
She acknowledged that wholesome pregnancies and protected deliveries are solely the start, and what occurs to moms and their youngsters within the months and years after beginning typically determines whether or not a baby survives to their fifth birthday.
Dr Abdullahi in a press release, mentioned Nigeria’s newest demographic and well being survey reveals that 110 out of each 1,000 youngsters die earlier than age 5, roughly one in 9, inserting the nation among the many highest under-five mortality charges on the planet.
“Maternal mortality stays equally excessive, highlighting the shared vulnerabilities of moms and kids,” she mentioned.
Dr. Abdullahi defined: “Moms who’re wholesome throughout being pregnant and postpartum can present hands-on care to their infants: making certain correct vitamin, protected twine care, and early detection of well being or developmental issues. When moms are supported and nicely, youngsters are way more prone to survive and thrive.”
Regardless of progress in protected deliveries, households typically return to communities the place clinics are distant, clear water is scarce, and preventable illnesses like pneumonia, diarrhoea, and malaria stay fixed threats. Two moms might depart the identical hospital with wholesome newborns; months later, just one baby might survive as a result of just one mom may persistently entry ongoing care.