Topic: Reducing Infant Mortality
Country: Denmark
Delegate Name: Kristin Gustavson
School: Vicksburg High School
Topic page: background guide and all position papers All Denmark position papers GLIMUN 2015 committees
Infant mortality is a problem that we still face today, even though it has decreased 45% since 1990. Causes include, but are not limited to, birth defects, preterm birth, sudden infant death syndrome, maternal complications in pregnancy, and injuries. Many of these outcomes can be prevented if we focus on women’s health. Solutions include medicines, vitamins, regular doctor check ups, and a healthy diet and exercise regimen, but how can these be enforced without proper health care provided?
Denmark is a model country for the reduction of infant mortality. Over the last century, the infant mortality rate has reduced all the way down to 4.1 deaths out of 1,000 births, and we are striving for less. Health care is available for anyone to take advantage of for no fee. There is a minimum of 9 check ups for all pregnant women, antenatal classes, as well as midwives and health visitors. Each woman is assigned a specific doctor, midwife, and health visitor, which reduces the stress of planning.
Denmark believes that enforcing good health care is key to the reduction of infant mortality. Placing a qualified doctor and nurse in each community for mothers to reach without hesitation is extremely important. Supplying these medical officials with materials needed for safe delivery and prenatal care is also essential. Supplying antenatal classes for new parents will educate them on what they can do to keep the child healthy outside of the hospital. Funding humanitarian programs, such as UNICEF, Doctors Without Borders, and, of course, the World Health Organization, will also help reduce infant mortality by spreading awareness, education, and safety.
