Geographic inequities remain sharp

The global decline in mortality has been much slower in some areas of the world, reflecting sharp inequities in access to quality health services. Maternal and under-five mortality rates remain unacceptably high, particularly in West Africa. 

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97.7 children under five die per 1,000 live births in West and Central Africa, compared to only 6 in the United States.

679 women die per 100,000 live births in West and Central Africa.

1/3 of the annual 300,000 global maternal deaths happen in francophone West Africa.