Health
During the critical developmental stage, especially from the womb to the age of 3, the health of children and caregivers has profound impacts across the child’s entire life course.7 For example, maternal distress during pregnancy increases the risk of a child having mental and physical health problems in later life.8 The health sector is uniquely positioned to save and transform lives. Before, during and after birth, health professionals and paraprofessionals can be a key source of information, support and advice to help boost child outcomes.
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Universal health coverage (UHC) – when “all people have access to the health services they need, when and where they need them, without financial hardship” (WHO)9 – can help to address the essential health needs of young children and their parents, including vital services like prenatal care and immunisation. At least half of the world’s population still don't have access to essential health services.10
SDG 3.8 Achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protection, access to quality essential health-care services and access to safe, effective, quality and affordable essential medicines and vaccines for all.
Photo: Graham Crouch - World Bank
Babies, toddlers and caregivers need strong health services to both survive and thrive. Despite significant progress, each year more than five million children die before their fifth birthday,5 and nearly 300,000 mothers die in childbirth.6
