'Pregnancy-related complications claim life every 45 minutes'

KARACHI:

 

Every 45 minutes, a woman in Pakistan dies from pregnancy-related complications - a grim statistic that underscored the urgency of the 4th International Family Planning Summit held in the metropolis.

Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho said the provincial government is taking concrete steps to bring maternity care to the doorstep of the people. "Old dispensaries are being converted into birthing stations, and community midwives are being trained to provide safe delivery services at home," she said.

Minister for Universities and Boards Ismail Rahoo stressed that the country's youth represented its greatest asset. "The purpose of higher education institutions is not merely to award degrees, but to instill awareness about reproductive health, responsible decision-making, and health consciousness among young people," he said.

JSMU VC Amjad Siraj Memon highlighted the critical role of male contraceptive methods in population control. "Vasectomy is an important tool, and we must raise awareness about it while ensuring facilities are available in all hospitals," he said.

Professor Dr Nighat Shah said, "Pakistan's population is increasing by roughly six million people every year. Contraceptive usage stands at a mere 34%, while 17.8% of the population's family planning needs remain unmet," she said.