Life is a priceless gift and maintaining good health is an essential aspect of enjoying it. However, women’s premature death rates in recent years have continued to increase and remain a major concern across the globe.
According to a study by the World Health Organization in 2017, approximately 303,000 women die from preventable causes of maternal mortality each year. This figure represents a worrying trend, which has remained prevalent in less developed countries.
While maternal health is a primary concern, the number of women impacted by premature death due to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and other causes is equally alarming.
Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and Premature Death Rates in Women
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for three-quarters of the global burden of disease, leading to premature death in most cases. These are chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer.
In the case of women, the prevalence rate of NCDs and premature death is on the rise, and the problem is significantly higher in less developed countries.
The rise of NCDs is said to be due to evolving health changes and lifestyle patterns in women. Today, more women juggle domestic responsibilities and careers, leading to prolonged periods of stress and insufficient self-care.
Unhealthy dietary habits, lack of physical exercise and increasing consumption of alcohol and tobacco are also significant factors contributing to the rise of NCDs.
The Impact of NCDs on Women’s Health
The prevalence of NCDs among women has far-reaching implications, aside from premature death. It affects their economic productivity, their contribution to society, and their overall well-being.
In many cases, women are the primary caregivers in their families, and their health directly affects the well-being of their families.
The impact of NCDs on women’s health is further exacerbated by gaps in healthcare systems. Women, especially those in less developed countries, have limited access to preventative care, early diagnoses, and appropriate treatment.
This lack of access is a significant downside that results in women’s continuous suffering from preventable deaths and illnesses.
Maternal Mortality and Premature Death Rates
While noncommunicable diseases are a significant cause of premature deaths among women, maternal mortality remains a prevalent issue globally. Maternal mortality is the death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within six weeks of giving birth.
Approximately 830 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth each day. This figure translates to approximately 303,000 women per year.
Developing countries have the highest maternal mortality rates, with Sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 66% of maternal deaths. It is a prevalent issue with numerous economic and social implications as it affects the overall well-being of the community.
The Impact of Maternal Mortality on Society
Maternal mortality represents a significant health care and social welfare issue across the globe. When a mother dies, the impact is felt by the entire community. Children are left without a parent, and families struggle to find new equilibrium.
The impact of maternal mortality extends beyond the immediate family unit, affecting the community’s social and economic welfare, leading to poverty and overall destabilization.
Women’s premature death rates, whether from maternal mortality or noncommunicable diseases, have far-reaching implications on the economic and social welfare of the community.
Addressing the issue requires ongoing intervention, education, and training, along with access to essential health care services.
The Role of Healthcare Providers in Reducing Women’s Premature Death Rate
The healthcare sector has a significant role to play in the reduction of women’s premature death rates.
The focus should be on preventative care, early diagnoses, and appropriate treatment, including appropriate antenatal care, screening for cervical and breast cancers, and other necessary measures. In addition, healthcare providers need to focus on women’s health education, emphasizing the critical role of self-care, exercise, and healthy living.
Women must also have access to healthcare services. Governments should work to expand health infrastructure, increase training for healthcare providers, and improve healthcare financing policies to reduce the financial burden on women and families.
Countries with mature healthcare systems should provide essential technical support to low-income countries, as the solution requires a collective effort from all stakeholders.
Conclusion
In conclusion, women’s premature death rates globally continue to be a matter of significant concern.
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), maternal mortality, and other preventable causes are the primary factors contributing to the deaths of women globally. These issues have far-reaching implications on the social welfare and economic productivity of the affected communities.
The healthcare sector has a significant role to play in reducing women’s premature death rates, alongside governments and all other stakeholders involved in the healthcare industry.