This World Health Day, observed on April 7, 2025, the spotlight is on safeguarding the lives of mothers and newborn infants. With the theme “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures,” the World Health Organization (WHO) has launched a year-long initiative calling on governments and health agencies to intensify efforts to stop avoidable maternal and neonatal deaths, while also highlighting women’s health in the long run.

In Telangana, recent figures from the state’s ATLAS report show improvement. In 2020, the infant mortality rate — deaths within the first year — was 21 per 1,000 live births. Neonatal deaths, occurring within the first 28 days, stood at 15 per 1,000, and the maternal mortality rate was 43 per 100,000 births. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recognised Telangana as one of eight states to reduce its maternal death rate below the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of 70.

Medical professionals credit this progress to better access, upgraded hospital facilities, and timely medical interventions. Dr. P Saroja, a gynaecologist at BirthRight by Rainbow, said maternal death isn’t just personal loss — it reflects system failure. She emphasised the importance of affordable, quality care before, during, and after delivery, alongside education, nutrition, and removing cultural barriers.

Dr. Tarakeswari S, CMD of Fernandez Hospital, reminded expectant mothers to stay alert. Symptoms like vision issues, chest pain, or reduced fetal movement require immediate medical attention.