Addressing Two Largely Unexamined Global Maternal and Infant Health Issues through Family-Based Care in Malawi
Speaker: Joanne Jorissen Chiwaula, MSc, CNM
Length: 59:45 minutes
Progress towards Sustainable Maternal & Child Health Development Goals in low-income countries is generally measured by a reduction in maternal and child mortality rates. However, gross statistics and a focus on ultimate causes of death miss both the impact of maternal health on infant survival as well as the prevalence and significance of poor maternal health-related quality of life.
Annually in Malawi, over 19,000 infants need targeted care to ensure they survive their first year. These infants face an increased risk of dying in family homes following the death or illness of their mothers or because they are twins or triplets. Additionally, the number of women experiencing prolonged periods of illness following “near-miss” deliveries eclipses the number of women who die during childbirth in Malawi. However, these women do not receive additional care following hospital discharge, despite the significant and prolonged impact on their physical and mental health.
This webinar discusses these issues, their significance on maternal and child health, and a model of care developed in Malawi to address them.
Founder & Director of African Mothers Health Initiative and Chimwemwe mu’bereki Association
