Maternal mortality causes 56,000 deaths every year in India, accounting for 20 percent of maternal deaths around the world, said John Townsend, vice president and director of the Population Council’s reproductive health program. It is a key battleground for maternal health advocates. But maternal health is sometimes eclipsed by other major health and development issues on the sub-continent. For example, nearly five times as many people suffer from HIV/AIDS and more than 400 million people live on less than $1.25 a day. read more
About the Global Health Initiative
Life and health are the most basic human rights, yet disparities between and within countries continue to grow–threatening political security and global stability. No single solution or institution can address the variety of health concerns the world faces. By leveraging, building on, and coordinating the Wilson Center’s strong regional and cross-cutting programming, the Global Health Initiative (GHI) promotes dialogue and understanding among practitioners, scholars, community leaders and policymakers. more
The Latest from the Global Health Initiative
Addressing Disrespect and Abuse During Childbirth
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May 02, 2013 // 12:00pm — 2:00pm
A recent Atlantic article detailed the abuse of an Indian woman, by a health worker, as she undergoes a caesarean section. While strides have been made in providing access to maternal health care services – transportation, lower costs, education, etc. – there is evidence that quality of care, and perceptions of that quality, may be an equally important barrier more
Roger-Mark De Souza Named Director of Population, Environmental Change, and Security
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Apr 22, 2013
Noted population-environment expert Roger-Mark De Souza joins the Wilson Center as Director of Population, Environmental Change, and Security. De Souza will lead programs on reproductive and maternal health, environmental security, and livelihoods, including the Center’s Environmental Change and Security Program and the Global Health Initiative. more
The Impact of Violence Against Women on Maternal Health
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April 18, 2013 // 12:00pm — 2:00pm
Women suffering from intimate partner violence are more likely to suffer from complications during their pregnancy, including miscarriage, low birth weight, and excessive bleeding. They’re also more likely to be denied medical assistance during childbirth by their husbands and in-laws. more
Maternal Health in India: Emerging Priorities (New Delhi, Boston, Washington, DC)
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April 04, 2013 // 9:00am — 11:00am
Maternal mortality causes 56,000 deaths every year in India, accounting for 20 percent of maternal deaths around the world, said John Townsend, vice president and director of the Population Council’s reproductive health program. It is a key battleground for maternal health advocates. But maternal health is sometimes eclipsed by other major health and development issues on the sub-continent. For example, nearly five times as many people suffer from HIV/AIDS and more than 400 million people live on less than $1.25 a day. more
Delivering Solutions to Improve Maternal Health and Increase Access to Family Planning
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Jan 16, 2013
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 800 women die daily from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Almost all of these deaths occur in developing countries, with higher rates for women living in rural areas and among poorer communities. more