Born Into A Changing Climate

How Environmental Challenges Shape Maternal Newborn Health

Environmental challenges have a large effect on maternal newborns with about 70% of reproductive-age and pregnant women having detectable levels of environmental toxicants.

It has been estimated that every year the world experiences 2.0 million stillbirths, 2.5 million neonatal deaths and 295,000 maternal deaths take place with a higher rate in low-income countries.

That’s not all; let’s take a look at the facts report by the World Health Organization in 2023 which shows that:

• Every day over 700 women die from causes related to pregnancy and childbirth which can be preventable.
• Almost every 2 minutes a maternal death occurred.
• The number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births dropped by about 40% worldwide between 2000 and 2023.
• Over 90% of all maternal deaths occurred in low and lower-middle-income countries.

Environmental Challenges And Solutions To Maternal Newborn Health

Several environmental challenges have emerged as significant determinants of maternal and newborn health including:

1. Climate Change: Climate change has emerged as a significant determinant of maternal newborn health over the years. Rising temperatures and extreme weather conditions can affect maternal health through increased heat stress and exposure to vector-borne diseases. To reduce the affected organizations should advocate for policies that promote renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions and develop disaster preparedness plans for extreme weather events to protect maternal and newborn health.

2. Air Pollution: Pregnant women are the most affected when society experiences pollution especially air due to released toxic gases from industries and automobiles. When inhaled affects newborns often leading to low birth weight and preterm birth. To reduce this, there should be the implementation of stricter emissions standards and an increment in green spaces and vegetation by planting trees to improve air quality. 

3. Water Quality: Contaminated water sources can lead to infections and other health issues during pregnancy. Disposal of wastes and chemical substances in the water can affect the fragile development of newborns and even the mother to avoid this proper sanitation facilities should be developed and waste should be disposed of properly to ensure safe drinking water.

4. Food Insecurity: Some environmental factors such as climate change and poor agricultural policy can affect the food supply leading to nutritional deficiencies that harm maternal and newborn health. To reduce this, pregnant women should be adequately educated on the kind of food to eat and preservation techniques. Industries should regulate and reduce the use of harmful chemicals in consumer products and food packaging. Local agriculture and sustainable farming practices to increase access to safe and nutritious food should be supported.

5. Socioeconomic Disparities: Environmental challenges disproportionately affect low-income communities, leading to inequities in maternal and newborn health outcomes. Policies that ensure equitable access to healthcare, education, and environmental resources for low-income communities should be promoted and healthcare providers should endeavor to discuss environmental risks with expectant mothers during prenatal check-ups.

Conclusion

The alarming statistics and environmental causes show the urgent need for quick action to safeguard the health of women and their infants in changing climate conditions.

As we work collectively (governments, organizations, communities, and individuals) toward mitigating these environmental challenges, let’s ensure that mothers can bring their children into a world that offers safety, health, and hope.

Remember, we are working hard to create a healthy and sustainable tomorrow for our future generations.