Afghanistan records one maternal death nearly every hour, WHO says

The World Health Organization (WHO) says Afghanistan continues to record one of the world’s highest maternal mortality rates, with nearly one woman dying every hour from preventable pregnancy and childbirth complications.

In a statement released on International Day of the Midwife, WHO said Afghanistan’s maternal mortality rate stands at 521 deaths per 100,000 live births despite improvements in healthcare access over the past two decades.

The agency said many maternal deaths are linked to conditions that are treatable or preventable, including hemorrhage, high blood pressure, infections and prolonged or obstructed labour.

WHO noted that Afghanistan has made measurable progress in maternal and child healthcare since the late 2000s. Prenatal care coverage increased from 31% to 76%, while deliveries assisted by skilled health workers rose from 24% to 67%.

According to the report, child mortality fell from 129 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2000 to 56 deaths in 2023.

However, the agency warned that healthcare access remains deeply unequal, particularly in rural and remote areas where women continue to face severe shortages of medical services and trained staff.

WHO also highlighted obstetric fistula as a major but underreported health challenge in Afghanistan. The condition, often caused by prolonged childbirth without medical intervention, can lead to chronic health complications and social isolation.

Afghanistan’s healthcare system has faced growing pressure in recent years due to funding shortages, economic decline and restrictions affecting women’s mobility and employment, including in parts of the health sector.

Aid agencies have repeatedly warned that reduced international funding and limited access to healthcare services could reverse years of progress in reducing maternal and child mortality across Afghanistan.

WHO said it is continuing programmes supported by the Islamic Development Bank to expand maternal and newborn care services, including specialised treatment centres in Kabul and Kandahar and training for nearly 1,000 healthcare workers.

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