A quick look at the calendar shows that April has arrived. In the cycle of the Rotary monthly themes, April is Maternal and Child Health Month. This is a special focus for Rotary because we know from our own experience its importance in daily life around the world. Many families do not have the access to medical care, nutrition, education, and clean water needed to ensure healthy mothers and children. As a result, The Rotary Foundation has made this one of its six areas of focus. I want to take some time this week to look at the statistics related to this focus from Rotary's Areas of Focus brochure.
6.3 million children under the age of five die each year from diseases, malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. Through Global Grant projects, Rotarians can provide immunizations and antibiotics; promote good nutrition; prevent mother-to-infant HIV transmission; and support water, sanitation, and hygiene efforts.
Women in sub-Saharan Africa face a 1 in 39 lifetime risk of dying of pregnancy or childbirth related complications. By providing birthing kits to health professionals and supporting accredited training programs, Rotarians can help prevent 80% of maternal deaths. There are 222 million women who would prefer to delay or avoid childbearing lack access to safe and effective contraception. Local Rotary Clubs help produce culturally and religion aware Family Planning information sheets and resources.
The good work that Rotary Clubs and Districts do to improve maternal and child health can only continue with your financial support of The Rotary Foundation. Annual contributions help to ensure that our Foundation has the funds to continue to help communities around the world. The need is great. Together we can make a difference.