Dr Asmus Hammerich, Director for non-communicable diseases and mental health (NMH) at the World Health Organization’s Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office said that 500,000 babies die in the Eastern Mediterranean region every year.
He said the Eastern Mediterranean region is hit by the death many mothers, babies and those who suffer from chronic diseases.
During the World Health Day, he said the 300,000 mothers lose their lives because of pregnancy and childbirth problems each year.
His statements coincided with a new report that 500,000 babies die every year from being raised in unhygienic conditions.
