Pakistan is facing a serious maternal health crisis, with approximately 11,000 women reportedly dying during childbirth each year due to food shortages and poor nutrition.
Federal Health Minister Kamal Mustafa disclosed the alarming figure during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. The minister’s statement highlighted concerns about maternal nutrition and healthcare access.
Why Are Thousands of Pakistani Mothers at Risk?
The minister linked maternal deaths to food scarcity, highlighting the difficulties faced by women during pregnancy and childbirth.
However, the meeting did not provide supporting research or clarify how the reported 11,000 deaths were attributed specifically to inadequate food.
Senate Committee Raises Concerns Over Formula Milk
Committee Chairman Amir Waliuddin Chishti emphasized that breast milk provides essential nutrients for infants.
He maintained that formula milk should not be promoted as an equivalent replacement for breastfeeding.
Chishti revealed that an awareness advertisement promoting breastfeeding had aired on 29 television channels.
However, a company reportedly obtained a court stay order the following day.
Government Discusses Breastfeeding Challenges
The committee chairman cited Bangladesh’s restrictions on formula milk advertising as an example.
Meanwhile, Health Minister Kamal Mustafa acknowledged that some mothers cannot breastfeed because of medical complications.
He stressed that healthcare authorities must consider their circumstances when developing policies.
Health Ministry Faces Administrative Concerns
The minister also revealed that 10 health secretaries had been appointed during the previous 16 months.
The committee’s discussions highlighted the importance of consistent health policies, maternal nutrition and infant care.
Pakistan’s maternal health challenges remain a significant concern for policymakers and healthcare professionals.
