Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases: 1,000+ women die each year in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is making commendable efforts towards improving sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). However, the recent revelations that more than 1,000 women die due to infections in their reproductive organs and that cervical cancer claims the lives of around 3,750 women every year are extremely concerning.

These numbers highlight the urgent need for the government, civil society, and policymakers to take proactive steps to improve the scenario. Some of the key areas that require attention are awareness, prevention, and access to healthcare services.

The statistics were revealed during a press conference titled the “National Conference 2023: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) in Bangladesh”, organised by icddr,b’s Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (AdSEARCH) project.

Dr Ahmed Ehsanur Rahman, Associate Scientist, Maternal and Child Health Division at icddr,b, stressed the need for increased awareness and prevention measures. He stated, “We need to educate women about the signs and symptoms of reproductive organ infections, cervical cancer, and other health complications. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications and even death.”

Experts have also called for increased access to healthcare facilities and services, particularly in rural areas. The lack of proper hygiene and sanitation facilities is also a major contributing factor to these health problems.

Dr Rahman observed that maternal health was a significant part of reproductive health. Around 196,471 people die worldwide every year due to maternal health problems, with 6,500 deaths reported in Bangladesh due to complications during childbirth.

The government, civil society, and policymakers need to work together to address the underlying causes of these health issues. Some of the key measures that could be taken include increasing funding for healthcare facilities, providing education on reproductive health, and promoting good hygiene practices.

As Dr Ehsanur Rahman stated, “Improving sexual and reproductive health and rights requires a comprehensive approach that involves addressing both the social and structural determinants of health.”

It is time for the government and all other stakeholders to take proactive steps and come up with realistic solutions towards improving sexual and reproductive health and rights. The lives of thousands of women; including our mothers’, sisters, daughters’ and wives’, are depending on it.

Source: The Financial Express