Enhancing Respiratory Health Access For Women And Children In Africa

Respiratory health is a relevant aspect that requires urgent attention in maternal and child health, especially in developing nations, such as Africa, where communicable and non-communicable respiratory health conditions pose a serious threat to such vulnerable populations compared to developed nations. Poor access to respiratory health access has worsened the situation in Africa. This article discusses the current state of respiratory health common among women and children (neonates and infants) in five nations used to represent the African region. This study reviewed published reports and studies relevant to achieving its aim. The review showed that Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, Respiratory Tract Infections (RTIs), and pneumonia were the common respiratory issues reported in Northern Africa (Egypt). Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS), chronic bronchitis, chronic hypoxia in the placenta, asthma, and respiratory symptoms such as nasal allergies and shortness of breath were the most common respiratory problems emanating from Western Africa, specifically Nigeria. COPD, pulmonary disturbances, and respiratory infections were common in Central Africa, specifically the Democratic Republic of Congo. Acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI), pneumonia, and COPD were reported in Eastern Africa (Ethiopia). In Southern Africa (South Africa), the following conditions have been identified: Respiratory symptoms (wheezing and chest tightness) in children, respiratory syncytial virus infections, and acute impairments in lung function due to early-life lower respiratory tract infections. This article also discusses how respiratory issues affect maternal and child health. Furthermore, information about how enhancing respiratory health access will contribute to attaining sustainable development goal 3 (Good health and well-being for all), promoting universal health coverage, and strengthening primary healthcare systems were discussed. It also shows how respiratory health access is related to maternal healthcare-seeking behaviour and offers evidence-based recommendations to improve respiratory healthcare access among maternal and child health in Africa. It is concluded that an urgent need exists for enhanced healthcare policies and practices to enhance respiratory health access to improve maternal and child health outcomes in Africa. Policy interventions should be implemented to improve respiratory access for women and their children. Additionally, community-based approaches should be employed, and respiratory health should be integrated into existing maternal and child health frameworks.

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