By: (Nov 06, 2006)
KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 6, 2006): Unsafe abortion is a serious health problem for women around the world, according to a World Report on Women's Health released by the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (Figo).
Figo president Dorothy Shaw said 13% of all maternal deaths globally were caused by unsafe abortions annually, adding that it was a much higher percentage in many developing countries.
"Almost anywhere in the world, a woman with resources can obtain a safe termination of an unwanted pregnancy, regardless of the law. On the other hand, a woman without resources often finds that a safe procedure is beyond her means," Shaw said today on the sidelines of the 18th Figo World Congress of Gynaecology and Obstetrics here that will last until Friday (Oct 10, 2006).
"Gender-based violence is another public health problem affecting girls and women in all social strata in all countries," said Shaw, citing prenatal sex selection, neglect of girls, honour and dowry-related violence, trafficking of women and girls for sexual exploitation, female genital mutilation or cutting, and violence against women in situations of armed conflict.
Shaw said there were serious health consequences for women, including adverse outcomes of pregnancy.
"Costs to the health care system are enormous, estimated at 3.3% of Gross Domestic Product in the US and US$40.2 billion in England and Wales."
Shaw added that recent information showed that almost 50% of sexual assaults occur in girls under the age of 15 and this may be a factor in the increase in HIV prevalence among young women between 15 and 24, who now account for the majority of HIV-positive young people.
"Public awareness is the first step in addressing these gross violations of the human rights of women and girls," said Shaw.
Unsafe abortion, fistula, violence against women and the tragic increase in HIV in young women are a few of the 22 areas of concern detailed in the report.
Shaw said obstetric fistula - a hole that develops usually between the vagina and bladder, and sometimes the rectum due to prolonged, obstructed labour - is a tragedy affecting an estimated two million women in Africa and Asia.
She said partnerships among international health care agencies have resulted in an increase in surgical repair, but prevention of obstetric fistula requires broader action to improve maternal health.
