Child health is a major concern in Pakistan, with high rates of infant and child mortality, malnutrition, and infectious diseases. The following are some of the key child health issues in Pakistan:
Infant mortality: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Pakistan has one of the highest rates of infant mortality in the world, with an estimated 62 deaths per 1,000 live births. The leading causes of infant mortality in Pakistan include preterm birth, complications during birth, and infections.
Malnutrition: Malnutrition is a significant issue in Pakistan, with an estimated 37% of children under the age of 5 suffering from stunted growth. This is often due to a lack of access to nutritious food and clean water, particularly in rural areas. Malnutrition also increases the risk of infectious diseases and contributes to poor cognitive development.
Infectious diseases: Infectious diseases such as pneumonia, diarrhea, and malaria are leading causes of child mortality in Pakistan. These diseases are often preventable and treatable with proper access to healthcare and vaccination. However, many children in Pakistan do not have access to basic healthcare services, which contributes to high rates of morbidity and mortality.
Lack of access to healthcare: Many children in Pakistan lack access to basic healthcare services, particularly in rural areas. This is due to a lack of infrastructure, a shortage of healthcare providers, and financial barriers. As a result, many children do not receive proper medical care or preventative measures such as vaccinations.
Water and sanitation: Access to clean water and sanitation is also a significant issue for child health in Pakistan. Many children do not have access to safe drinking water or proper sanitation facilities, which increases the risk of waterborne diseases and contributes to poor health outcomes.
Efforts are being made to address these child health issues in Pakistan. The government has implemented policies and programs aimed at improving child health, including the National Health Vision 2016-2025 and the National Nutrition Action Plan. International organizations and non-governmental organizations are also working to improve child health in Pakistan, through initiatives such as the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). However, much more needs to be done to ensure that all children in Pakistan have access to basic healthcare services, clean water, and proper nutrition, which are essential for their growth and development.
Regenerate response
