Afghanistan, June 17 -- The World Health Organization said it is working with partners to expand access to life-saving healthcare services in Afghanistan's remote Badakhshan province, where difficult terrain and scattered communities continue to limit access to medical care.
In a statement on Wednesday, the WHO said Afghanistan continues to face one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the region, with an estimated 521 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. The agency attributed the situation to longstanding shortages of skilled birth attendants, emergency obstetric care and healthcare facilities in remote areas.
The WHO said improving access to maternal and newborn healthcare remains a priority, particularly in underserved region...