The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently announced the theme for World Health Day 2025 as ‘Maternal and Newborn Health’. This theme has been chosen to bring attention to the importance of ensuring the well-being of mothers and their newborns, and to highlight the need for improved healthcare services for this vulnerable population.
Dr. Tasnim Ghaleb Sadeq Atatrah, the new WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, emphasized the significance of this theme and the need to address the challenges faced by mothers and newborns in the region. She stated, “Maternal and newborn health is a crucial aspect of overall health and well-being. It is essential that we prioritize and invest in the health of mothers and their newborns to ensure a healthy future for our communities.”
The Eastern Mediterranean region has made significant progress in improving maternal and newborn health over the years, with a significant decrease in maternal and neonatal mortality rates. However, there is still a long way to go to ensure that every mother and newborn receives quality healthcare services. This is especially true for vulnerable populations, such as refugees, displaced persons, and those living in conflict-affected areas.
The theme for World Health Day 2025 is a call to action to address the existing gaps in maternal and newborn health and to work towards achieving universal health coverage for all. It also aims to raise awareness about the importance of investing in the health of mothers and newborns, as it has a direct impact on the health of the entire community.
One of the main challenges in improving maternal and newborn health is the lack of access to quality healthcare services. This is particularly true in low and middle-income countries, where there is a shortage of skilled healthcare workers, limited resources, and inadequate infrastructure. The WHO is working closely with governments and partners in the region to strengthen health systems and improve access to essential maternal and newborn health services.
In addition to access to healthcare, there is also a need to focus on the quality of care provided to mothers and newborns. This includes ensuring skilled birth attendants, adequate equipment and supplies, and effective referral systems. The WHO is working to improve the skills and competencies of healthcare providers through training and capacity-building programs.
Investing in the health of mothers and newborns not only leads to better health outcomes but also has a significant economic impact. Healthy mothers and newborns are the foundation of a healthy society, and their well-being contributes to the economic growth and development of a country. It is estimated that for every dollar invested in maternal and newborn health, there is a return of up to $20 in economic and social benefits.
The theme for World Health Day 2025 also highlights the importance of addressing the social determinants of health that impact maternal and newborn health outcomes. These include factors such as gender inequality, poverty, education, and access to clean water and sanitation. The WHO is working with governments and other stakeholders to address these underlying factors and create an enabling environment for mothers and newborns to thrive.
As we celebrate World Health Day 2025, let us remember that every mother and newborn deserves access to quality healthcare services. Let us also recognize the important role that mothers play in the health and well-being of their families and communities. By investing in maternal and newborn health, we are investing in a healthier and more prosperous future for all.
In conclusion, the theme for World Health Day 2025, ‘Maternal and Newborn Health’, is a timely reminder of the need to prioritize the health of mothers and newborns and work towards achieving universal health coverage for all. It is a call to action for governments, healthcare providers, and communities to come together and ensure that every mother and newborn receives the care and support they need. Let us join hands and strive towards a healthier and more equitable world for all.