Maternal mortality rate down in Kunduz

KUNDUZ CITY (Pajhwok): Despite lack of health care facilities in far-flung areas, the maternal mortality rate has declined in northern Kunduz province, an official claimed on Sunday.

Dr. Abdul Qudus Miakhel, the regional hospital director, said the mother mortality rate dropped to 250 deaths in the last couple of years in the province — thanks to an increase in the number of public health workers.

Establishment of health centres with communication facilities in remote areas and enhancement of public awareness about expecting mothers’ safety also played a role in bringing down the number of deaths.

The official said 60 women visited the hospital for delivery on a daily basis. Of them 54 women deliver babies normally and the remaining six require operations.

A decade back, a Ministry of Public Health survey showed 1,600 in 10,000 women died during childbirth, but latest studies indicate only 329 deaths.

Public Health Director Dr. Saad Mukhtar said 65 health centres had been constructed so far in the provincial capital and districts. He added 85 percent of people had been provided with health facilities.

Public awareness, improvement of communications and transportation services, connections between villages and district centres are the main reasons behind the fall in mothers’ mortality rate.

Residents also acknowledged health facilities had improved and access to such centres had been made easier. Noor Mohammad, belonging to the Durman village of Imam Sahib district, said a clinic was built there one year ago. 

nh/mud