To make matters worse, the maternal mortality rate in the U.S. is the highest of any developed nation in the entire world.

Black women in Latin America, the Caribbean and the United States are more likely than their white counterparts to report denial of medication or physical and verbal abuse in health care settings.

Improving surgical care for women in low- and middle-income countries is a global health priority. It’s also critical for sustainable development because of the critical role women play in macro-economic growth, community well-being, and as part of the healthcare workforce.

ADOLESCENTS and young people, particularly girls in Liberia, have the right to realize their full potential. They also hold the key to breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty and achieving Liberia’s development aspirations.

Up to one in four African girls have their first child before the age of 18. Becoming a mother at such a young age can lead to mental health problems like depression. Research suggests that pregnant and parenting teenagers have poorer mental health than adult mothers.

With both feet flat on the floor, Kennise Nevers settles into the sofa in her living room. She peels open a blood pressure cuff, and

The Government has rejected the Women and Equalities Committee’s recommendation to set a target and strategy to end disparities in maternal deaths. Published today (Friday), the Government’s response to the Committee’s Black maternal health report, says that a concrete target “does not necessarily focus resource and attention through the best mechanisms.” It continues “we do not believe a target and strategy is the best approach towards progress.”

Despite various investments and political action, maternal death rates have climbed in recent years, especially for Black women. California passed a law in 2021 to confront racial disparities in maternal and infant health, but advocates say there needs to be mechanisms for transparency and accountability and deeper investment.

The recent death of Olympian Tori Bowie due to pregnancy complications has once again thrust the plight of Black mothers into the media spotlight. Despite random coverage, these tragedies are not isolated incidents. They reflect the impact of ongoing medical and public health neglect. These deaths expose the cost of systemic inaction.