Maternal-child health in Zimbabwe

In this paper I describe maternal and child health needs in Zimbabwe, as well as existing health care delivery services designed to meet these needs. The information presented is based on a project sponsored by Earthwatch (a worldwide volunteer organization) that addressed the needs of women and infants, as well as the author's contribution to this effort. Because of a long-standing drought, many women and children in Zimbabwe are malnourished. Poor nutrition affects the woman herself, pregnancy outcomes, and the developing child, and has far-reaching repercussions. The major problems that contribute to maternal child morbidity and mortality include nutritional deficiencies, lack of safe water, and family planning needs. Earlier surveys conducted on maternal nutrition consistently showed iron deficiency, goiters, underweight, and inadequate nutrient intake to be quite prevalent. On the basis of previous assessments, this project focused on educating community health workers on ways to assist families with nutritional deficiencies, family planning, and hygiene needs.