Afghanistan healthcare crisis threatens maternal and infant survival

Afghanistan is facing a severe healthcare crisis that has made pregnancy a life-threatening ordeal for many women. Following five years of Taliban rule, the country maintains one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world.

Restrictive decrees targeting women have significantly impacted the medical sector. With bans on female education after age 12 and limitations on women's employment and public life, there is a growing shortage of female medical professionals. Dr. Roshanak Wardak warns that the lack of new female doctors will lead to catastrophic consequences, as many families refuse to allow women to be treated by male physicians.

The situation is further exacerbated by a reduction in international aid due to sanctions and frozen assets. In Kabul's Indira Gandhi Children's Hospital, overcrowding is severe, with some beds holding three infants. Medical staff report high mortality rates, noting that in some instances, up to six children die in a single day.