PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted issues surrounding access to care — particularly true in economically challenged countries.
Early prenatal care and careful follow-up during pregnancy are essential to help ensure the birth of a healthy baby.
Researchers at St. George's, University of London have been monitoring the health of babies throughout the world for many years. They say it is clear from their observations and studies performed by others that the disruption caused by the pandemic has led to the avoidable deaths of both mothers and babies, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
They issued a stern warning to avoid further issues, asking policymakers and health care leaders to prioritize safe, accessible and equitable maternity care.
This is a lesson for us all — and it should not just be limited to pregnancy and childbirth.
KYW Newsradio's Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
