The World Health Organization (WHO) has praised Sri Lanka for achieving a significant reduction in maternal mortality, reaching 25 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023. This milestone, the organization noted, is the result of the country’s free and equitable maternal healthcare services, strong midwifery system, and commitment to continuous quality improvement.
However, the WHO also raised concerns over a recent rise in the number of low birth weight babies in Sri Lanka. Citing recent studies, the organization stressed the urgent need to investigate the underlying causes, particularly the role of maternal nutrition, which has far-reaching consequences for both maternal and child health.
The announcement came as the WHO marked World Health Day on April 7 by launching a yearlong campaign for 2025 titled “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.” The campaign aims to rally governments and healthcare communities to intensify efforts to prevent maternal and newborn deaths and prioritize long-term health and well-being for women.
Despite global progress—a 40% reduction in maternal mortality since 2000—maternal health challenges remain widespread. In 2023 alone, nearly 300,000 women died due to complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for about 70% of these deaths, with Central and Southern Asia contributing another 17%.
During a WHO-led webinar series in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Health, the global health body acknowledged Sri Lanka’s success as a model of progress. Key contributors to the achievement include professional midwifery services, data-driven health policies, and accessible maternal care.
Nevertheless, the WHO cautioned that Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic downturn and rising poverty levels threaten to reverse some of these gains, especially by impacting maternal nutrition. Limited access to nutritious food and essential healthcare services for pregnant women could have long-term health implications, the organization warned.
In its concluding remarks, the WHO reaffirmed its support for Sri Lanka’s maternal health goals, emphasizing the need to enhance prenatal and postnatal services, reduce disparities in healthcare access, and integrate advanced medical technologies to sustain and improve outcomes for mothers and newborns alike.
