Maternity deaths in Iraq have nearly tripled since 1990, UN survey finds

http://electroniciraq.net/news/1187.shtml

The number of women who die of pregnancy and childbirth in Iraq has nearly tripled since 1990, according to a reproductive health survey conducted by UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund. Bleeding, ectopic pregnancies and prolonged labour are among the causes of the reported 310 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2002, which the study found had risen sharply from 117 deaths in 1989. Miscarriages have also risen, partly due to stress and exposure to chemical contaminants.

Breakdown in security, as well as weakened communication and transport systems, have made access to medical facilities difficult for women. As a result, more women -- some 65 per cent -- are giving birth at home, the majority without skilled help.

The health system is in desperate need of rehabilitation. Many clinics have been damaged and looted, water and electricity supplies have been disrupted and drugs and medical equipment are grossly lacking. While Iraq has a strong cadre of well-qualified health personnel, their skills urgently need to be updated since sanctions limited their access to new scientific findings for over 10 years, according to the survey.

“The reconstruction effort in Iraq will benefit greatly from rapid improvements in the area of reproductive health,” said Thoraya Ahmed Obaid, UNFPA’s Executive Director. “The health-care infrastructure is still in place, but it needs to be strengthened and updated. UNFPA is committed to this effort.”
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with nary a word about our involvement in this nightmare

If they have to send the sons of their housekeepers and their parking attendants to die, and pay 87 billion $, they want to see some dead Muslims.

Frankly I was shocked to find out we were not on the top of all list when it comes to anything to do with health. You hear how we do not wish to change anything with ours as we have the greatest health care in the world. Then we always hear about the people who come here and how many MRI we have. So the world figures were a real shock. Some one find those and put them up.Bet the regular Rep would be shocked also.

we're 27th