Lanka cuts maternal deaths, faces rise in low birth weight babies

Sri Lanka has achieved a significant milestone in maternal health, reducing maternal mortality to 25 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023—a feat the World Health Organization (WHO) describes as “remarkable.”

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This progress, attributed to the country’s strong and inclusive healthcare system that ensures free and equitable access to maternal services, was highlighted in a statement marking World Health Day 2025, themed “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures.” However, the WHO also raised concern over a rising trend in low birth weight among newborns, emphasizing the urgent need to investigate underlying factors, particularly the role of maternal nutrition.

Maternal and newborn health statistics remain alarming. Each year, nearly 300,000 women die due to pregnancy or childbirth complications. Over 2 million newborns do not survive beyond their first month, while another 2 million are stillborn. This equates to a preventable death every seven seconds, causing immense suffering for families worldwide. Many of these tragedies could be prevented with better access to quality prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care, alongside stronger healthcare systems that prioritize maternal and newborn well-being.

Since 2000, global efforts have led to a 40% reduction in maternal mortality, dropping from 446,000 deaths in 2000 to 260,000 in 2023. However, disparities persist. In 2023, Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for approximately 70% of global maternal deaths, with Central and Southern Asia contributing another 17%.