Women's health
A recent report has revealed that more than 41 per cent of women in Pakistan are suffering from anaemia, while 14.4 per cent are classified as underweight and 24 per cent are considered overweight. The state of maternal nutrition is so dire that 186 women die for every 100,000 live births. Inadequate breastfeeding contributes to 2,000 maternal deaths from breast and ovarian cancer and 1,100 deaths from type II diabetes each year. A significant aspect of societal progress is women's health, according to another report by the World Economic Forum. Addressing the health disparities women face not only advances gender equality but also paves the way for economic prosperity. In Pakistan, the urgency of this issue is paramount. Pakistani women contend with numerous health challenges, which are worsened by restricted access to quality healthcare, nutritional deficiencies and societal norms that favour male health.
The government can significantly improve women's health by expanding access to quality healthcare, enhancing nutritional programmes, implementing comprehensive maternal health services, promoting gender-sensitive policies, and increasing health awareness through education and community outreach. New initiatives should particularly address maternal health and nutrition. Collaborating with global platforms will provide valuable insights and resources to tackle the health challenges faced by women in Pakistan. Investing in women's health is not just about individual benefits but is a critical investment in society as a whole. By prioritising women's health, we can unlock potential, drive economic growth, and build a more equitable and prosperous future. Additionally, media engagement should raise awareness, and efforts must focus on making a proper diet affordable for families. To further improve women's health, the government could also enhance mental health support, strengthen health infrastructure in underserved areas, and incentivise private-sector partnerships to expand healthcare services.