Effects of extreme weather expected in countries that already have high maternal and newborn death rates El Niño stokes a higher risk of death in childbirth for millions of women in the world’s harshest crisis zones, midwives have warned. Converging waves of weather – floods, cyclones and extreme heat – forecast to peak in the coming months will prove fatal for many, especially pregnant women, who face being cut off from hospital when in labour. Continue reading...
El Niño will increase risk of death in childbirth for millions, say midwives
In short
Climate disruptions linked to the weather pattern are poised to disproportionately affect areas already struggling with high rates of maternal and newborn mortality. Forecasts indicate that overlapping hazards such as extreme heat, cyclones, and flooding will soon peak and endanger entire communities. In particular, women entering labor risk being completely cut off from hospital access, leading to fatal complications. These compounding factors place millions of mothers at heightened risk of dying during delivery.
Key points
- Extreme weather threatens to cut off vital hospital access for vulnerable pregnant women…: Extreme weather threatens to cut off vital hospital access for vulnerable pregnant women in crisis zones.
- Existing disparities in maternal and newborn mortality will be worsened as upcoming clima…: Existing disparities in maternal and newborn mortality will be worsened as upcoming climate events reach peak intensity.
- Converging environmental hazards are anticipated to prove fatal for many individuals livi…: Converging environmental hazards are anticipated to prove fatal for many individuals living in hard-hit disaster areas.