Improving Maternal and Child Health in Ethiopia

Key Points:

• Each year, 173,000 children and 14,000 women in Ethiopia die from preventable or treatable health conditions.
• The HaSET Maternal and Child Health Research Program aims to improve health in Ethiopia by understanding the drivers of maternal and child illnesses and death.
• HaSET published a research study that estimated antenatal care coverage in rural Ethiopia. The study found that 92.3% of women attended at least one antenatal care visit, but none attended the recommended eight visits.
• The study also highlighted the need for improved data collection systems in low-resource settings, as self-reported data often differs from facility records.
• HaSET graduated its inaugural class of fellows from its postdoctoral program in maternal and child health. The fellows completed academic modules and worked on research projects that produced 15 manuscripts and 11 policy briefs.
• The research and work done by the fellows will help inform decision-making and expand health programs in Ethiopia.

Hot Take:

The HaSET Maternal and Child Health Research Program is making strides in improving maternal and child health in Ethiopia. Through their research and the work of their fellows, HaSET is providing valuable data and evidence to guide policymaking and expand health programs in the country. By addressing barriers to antenatal care and investing in improved data collection systems, Ethiopia has the potential to significantly reduce preventable deaths and improve the overall health and well-being of women and children. Keep up the great work, HaSET!

Original article:https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/features/maternal-and-child-health-research-program-in-ethiopia-makes-strides/