WHO: Highest Maternal Mortality Rates Recorded in War-Torn Countries

The World Health Organization announced that nearly two-thirds of maternal deaths worldwide occur in countries facing war and instability.

In a report released on Tuesday, February 17, the WHO stated that approximately 160,000 women in crisis-affected and fragile environments died in 2023 due to preventable factors related to pregnancy.

Pregnant women in war-torn countries face up to five times greater risk of death per pregnancy compared to those in stable countries, according to the report.

The WHO estimated the average maternal mortality rate in war-affected countries at 504 deaths per 100,000 live births. In socially fragile countries, the rate stands at 368 deaths per 100,000 live births, while stable countries report 99 deaths per 100,000 live births.

The organization emphasized that maternal mortality remains alarmingly high in low-income and crisis-hit countries, calling for urgent humanitarian and health interventions.