Maternal and Child Health: Introduction

Abstract

In most developing countries, children and young adults under the age of 15 make up about 40 per cent of the population (see figures 1 and 2). If to this were added the number of expectant and lactating mothers, then about 60 per cent of the population would need to be covered by the maternal and child health services. The aims of such a service are to ensure that:

• (1) Every expectant mother maintains good health, is prepared both physically and psychologically to look after her child, goes through a normal delivery and bears a healthy child.

• (2) Every child grows up in healthy surroundings, receives proper nourishment and adequate protection from disease.

• (3) Communicable diseases are controlled in the vulnerable groups by taking adequate preventive measures and by health education.

• (4) Sickness is detected and treated early before it become serious or chronic.

• (5) Simple statistical data on morbidity and mortality are maintained at regional and national levels.