Funding Cuts Put Afghan Women's Healthcare at Risk as Clinics Close

India, Aug. 14 -- Funding shortages are forcing healthcare facilities across Afghanistan to shut down, leaving women and girls increasingly vulnerable as the country confronts a deepening humanitarian crisis, CARE said in a statement published August 13.

Clinics Forced to Close

CARE said it has closed 30 clinics in Afghanistan this year because of funding cuts. Separately, the World Health Organization has reported that about 150 health facilities across the country have suspended operations or closed since January due to financial shortages.

The closures pose particular risks to pregnant women. Afghanistan's maternal mortality rate stands at 638 deaths per 100,000 live births, the highest reported rate in Asia, according to CARE. A midw...