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A matter of life and birth: On World Health Day, Syria’s mothers and newborns deserve more than survival

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Pediatric nurse Razan examines a young patient at a clinic in Homs, where she treats children with signs of malnutrition. Photo: WHOPediatric nurse Razan examines a young patient at a clinic in Homs, where she treats children with signs of malnutrition. Photo: WHO8 April 2025, Syrian Arab Republic – In the busy corridors of Al Amal Pediatric and Maternity Hospital in Azaz, Aleppo, every available chair — and many floor corners — have become makeshift waiting areas and treatment spaces. Nurses administer IV drips on benches; consultations take place wherever a bit of free space can be found. Overcrowding is the new normal. The outpatient and maternity services are running at over 30% above their intended capacity. 

But this surge isn’t only a crisis. It’s also a sign of hope. Following recent political developments in December, and the removal of a frontline that had separated communities for years, families from Aleppo city can now reach Azaz more safely. Many have come seeking quality maternity and pediatric care — and to reunite with relatives after years apart. 

They didn’t come because they were fleeing. They came because they finally could. What many may not know is that this hospital — like 246 others across northwestern and northeastern Syria  is at risk of shutting down.

Asliya’s choice 

Asliya Al-Hamoud holds her 2-month-old son as Dr. Mohammed Al Hamed, a pediatrician at Al Amal Hospital, conducts a follow-up check-up. Photo: WHOAsliya Al-Hamoud holds her 2-month-old son as Dr. Mohammed Al Hamed, a pediatrician at Al Amal Hospital, conducts a follow-up check-up. Photo: WHOWhen Asliya Al-Hamoud, 29, arrived at Al Amal with her two-month-old son Ahmad, she was terrified. He had a persistent cough. Within days, it progressed to pneumonia. Doctors admitted him immediately. 

“They told me, ‘Don’t worry. We’ll treat him freely,’” she recalls, her voice trembling. She stayed in the hospital for a week. By the time she left, Ahmad’s breathing had steadied — thanks to free medication and round-the-clock care. 

A mother of five, Asliya has been displaced twice — first from Deir-ez-Zor in 2017, and again from Eastern Ghouta in 2020. She compared her experience at Al Amal with a previous visit to a private hospital that charged her 150 USD. “We can’t afford that on a monthly household income of less than 200 USD,” she says. “If we can keep supporting public hospitals with medicines, we won’t need to go to private pharmacies.” 

Today, more than half of Syria’s health facilities are non-functional. Only 57% of hospitals and 37% of primary healthcare centers remain fully operational. While medical services struggle with shortages in supplies and outdated equipment, families like Asliya’s are also burdened by rising living costs, making it harder to access or afford consistent care.

Hadiya’s hands 

Midwife Hadiya, who supervises the maternity team at Al Amal Maternity and Child Hospital in Azaz, discusses a case with a fellow midwifeMidwife Hadiya, who supervises the maternity team at Al Amal Maternity and Child Hospital in Azaz, discusses a case with a fellow midwifeMidwife Hadiya Al-Hamouri, 52, has delivered babies during airstrikes, in basements, and under candlelight. She fled her hometown of Hama in 2012 and now lives and works in Azaz. 

“In the past, we used to go house to house to help women give birth,” she says. “It was too dangerous or too far for them to reach a hospital.” 

Today, it’s not insecurity keeping women away — it’s funding cuts and facility closures. And while Hadiya has three decades of experience, even she is struggling to meet the growing needs. 

“Sometimes we don’t have the tools to test for infections or complications. The need is growing. Displaced women keep coming. They trust us, but we’re running out of support.” 

In many parts of Syria, women still arrive late in labor, without any prenatal checkups. The lack of early screening means preventable complications — bleeding, infections, hypertension — can escalate quickly. With trained staff like Hadiya, these risks can be managed. But only if women can access care in time. 

Yasmin’s hope 

Yasmin undergoes a routine mammogram during her maternity visit at Al Amal Hospital in Azaz. Photo: WHOYasmin undergoes a routine mammogram during her maternity visit at Al Amal Hospital in Azaz. Photo: WHOYasmin, 32, lives in Aleppo city with her sister and their children. She traveled to Al Amal and received the care she needed — respectful, efficient, and free. 

But back home, things are harder. “You need to know someone to get an appointment,” she says. “Public hospitals are overcrowded. You wait weeks for an appointment. My sister had to pay an ambulance just to get to a center — and then they asked for more money when she arrived.” 

It’s not just inconvenient. It’s dangerous. The delays, referral barriers, and high cost of transport put maternal and newborn health at risk — especially for low-income and displaced families. 

Yasmin is one of over 273,000 mothers who received infant feeding counselling last year through WHO-supported programmes. But that lifeline may not last. Continued funding cuts could reduce these services when families need them most. 

A nurse’s perspective 

Pediatric nurse Razan smiles at the camera between consultations at her clinic in Homs. Photo: WHOPediatric nurse Razan smiles at the camera between consultations at her clinic in Homs. Photo: WHOIn Homs, pediatric nurse Razan sees the long-term consequences of disrupted care. Her clinic regularly treats children with severe malnutrition — the result of families unable to access early feeding support or afford formula milk. 

“Formula is expensive. Some mothers use starch water or herbs instead,” she says. The results are visible: thin limbs, pale skin, fatigue, and stunted growth. 

With WHO support, over 1 million children under five were screened for malnutrition in 2024. But Razan is quick to emphasize: “If we want to stop malnutrition, we have to support the mother first.” Moreover, WHO’s plans to expand baby-friendly hospitals and establish breastfeeding corners in specialized infant care facilities have been delayed due to funding cuts—leaving mothers and infants even more vulnerable. This underlines the urgent need for sustained investment to protect these essential services. 

In rural Hama 

A mobile medical team from Al-Birr Association visits Samira at her home in rural Hama to provide prenatal care. Photo: WHOA mobile medical team from Al-Birr Association visits Samira at her home in rural Hama to provide prenatal care. Photo: WHOIn a remote village near Al-Talisiyah, Samira Khaled, 26, had missed her period for four months. She was pale, fatigued, and unsure if she was pregnant — or simply unwell. There was no clinic nearby. She couldn't afford to travel. 

When a mobile medical team from Al-Birr Association visited her community, they confirmed her pregnancy with an ultrasound. They also diagnosed anemia, prescribed iron and calcium supplements, and scheduled her for follow-up care. 

Without that visit, her pregnancy, as well as her anemia, might have gone undetected — putting her at greater risk for complications, including life-threatening post-partum hemorrhage. 

A fragile future 

What keeps health workers in Syria going is the belief that every life — every mother, every newborn — matters. 

But what keeps them up at night is this: Today, Syria’s maternal mortality rate stands at 60 deaths per 100,000 live births and neonatal mortality at 11 deaths per 1,000 live births. Without urgent and sustained support, maternal and newborn care in Syria will unravel. Clinics will close. Ambulances will stop. Hospitals will shutter. And women and children will pay the ultimate price. 

On this World Health Day, we’re reminded that ending preventable maternal and newborn deaths isn’t a global ambition. It’s a moral obligation. 

In Syria, it’s a promise worth keeping.

Novo Nordisk Foundation’s $3.49 million donation strengthens Syria’s health emergency response

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Damascus, Syria – 7 April 2025 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has welcomed a generous contribution of US$3.49 million from the Novo Nordisk Foundation to strengthen emergency health services for millions of people affected by the protracted crisis in Syria. The funding will bolster trauma care, reinforce disease surveillance and outbreak response, and improve access to essential healthcare in one of the world’s most complex humanitarian emergencies.

“We are deeply grateful to the Novo Nordisk Foundation for their timely contribution,” said Christina Bethke, Acting WHO Representative in Syria. “This support comes at a pivotal moment and will enable WHO to deliver life-saving health services and reach underserved and vulnerable populations at a time when Syria’s health system is under tremendous strain.”

Despite WHO’s unwavering commitment to ensuring health for all, an urgent funding gap of US$114 million—representing 81% of its Syria appeal—threatens the delivery of life-saving medical assistance.

“Without immediate and sustained engagement from our partners, there is a real risk of further deterioration,” Bethke added. “We urge the international community to reinforce its solidarity with Syria and support the humanitarian health response, ensuring that essential care continues uninterrupted while paving the way for a stronger, more resilient system.”

About the Novo Nordisk Foundation

Established in Denmark in 1924, the Novo Nordisk Foundation is an enterprise foundation with philanthropic objectives. The Foundation’s vision is to improve people’s health and the sustainability of society and the planet. Its mission is to advance research and innovation in the prevention and treatment of cardiometabolic and infectious diseases, as well as to promote knowledge and solutions supporting a green transformation of society. www.novonordiskfonden.dk/en

Media contacts:

For WHO:

In Damascus, Syria: Halah Kabash, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

In Gaziantep, Türkiye: Mrinalini Santhanam, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

A Syrian family’s victory over TB

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Om Molham with her children after recoveryOm Molham with her children after recovery24 March 2025 — Every year, 24 March is observed as World Tuberculosis (TB) Day to amplify the urgency of ending TB, the world’s deadliest infectious disease which continues to devastate millions globally, inflicting severe health, social and economic consequences.

This year’s theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver”, offers an opportunity to reflect on ongoing efforts and encourage stronger commitment at local, national and international levels to end TB, including by combatting the growing threat of drug-resistant TB.

WHO has been instrumental in supporting the Syrian Arab Republic’s Ministry of Health (MoH) as it strengthens its national TB programme. WHO supplies medications for drug-sensitive and drug-resistant TB and contributes to the diagnosis and treatment of more than 3000 TB cases each year. It has delivered 6 X-ray machines and one CAD4TB artificial intelligence image reader for better diagnosis, and advanced molecular biology laboratory equipment to enhance TB detection.

WHO supported the development of the national TB strategy 2020–2026, trains health care workers on the latest WHO guidelines and treatment regimens, and has provided 5 mobile TB clinics to serve high burden and difficult to access areas in conflict-affected regions such as Deir-ez-Zor Governorate, where TB remains a persistent challenge.

In such areas, the partnership between WHO and local health authorities has driven significant progress in TB treatment and local health system strengthening.

Om Molham, a 57-year-old mother living in Deir-ez-Zoz, and her 4 children, were diagnosed with TB after her eldest son, Molham, began showing symptoms. Molham, a 19-year-old mechanic, had supported the family until his deteriorating health left him unable to work. Soon, the rest of the family also fell ill.

Om Molham, a widow, faced the daunting challenge of caring for her children alone, with little income. Her resolve remained unshaken. She ensured that each family member followed their treatment plan, attending regular appointments and undergoing necessary tests.

"I couldn’t give up on my children. Despite everything – losing my husband, facing illness and not having enough resources – I was determined to see them well again. Support from the free-of-charge TB centre gave us hope, and together we fought to survive," says Om Molham.

Om Molham and her children adhered to a rigorous treatment plan. Over 6 months of treatment and regular monitoring, the family achieved a full recovery. This successful outcome was made possible by Om Molham’s determination, the dedication of the TB centre’s health workers and their ability to provide efficient diagnosis for multidrug resistant TB and follow up with appropriate treatment.

As the world observes World TB Day, Om Molham’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of commitment, investment and delivery in the fight against TB.

Progress made in Deir-ez-Zor Governorate underscores the effectiveness of WHO’s support in providing lifesaving treatments and strengthening local health systems. By continuing to commit, invest and deliver, we can end TB and create a healthier future for communities everywhere.

WHO calls for urgent support to rebuild Syria’s health system

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WHO calls for urgent support to rebuild Syria’s health system17 March 2025, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic On the 14th anniversary of the start of the Syrian conflict, WHO is calling for predictable, multi-year funding to sustain critical humanitarian health services and enable a stable transition towards recovery and national unity. 

Continued instability threatens essential health care delivery at a time when nearly 15.8 million people require urgent health assistance. Only 57% of Syria’s hospitals, and just 37% of primary health care centres, are fully operational. Shortages of medical supplies, outdated equipment and damaged infrastructure continue to strain services. Many hospitals operate at minimal capacity or close due to funding shortfalls.. Across northwest and northeast Syria, 246 health facilities are at risk of imminent closure due to lack of funds. 

Three out of four  people in Syria rely on humanitarian aid and require urgent development assistance. Malnutrition rates have tripled in the past 4 years, placing Syria among the world’s top 10 hunger-affected countries. 

“Keeping humanitarian health services running is essential as Syria moves towards recovery. Any break in humanitarian aid could deepen vulnerabilities and leave more people without care,” says Acting WHO Representative in Syria Christina Bethke. 

“The transition presents an opportunity to rebuild, but it must be managed carefully. WHO remains committed to supporting Syria, working closely with the Ministry of Health and health partners.” 

With up to 70% of Syria’s health workforce having left the country, WHO stresses that rebuilding healthcare capacity is essential. “Investing in medical training, upskilling, and education programmes is critical to restoring the workforce and ensuring sustainable health services,” Bethke added. 

To sustain essential health services, strengthen emergency response, enhance disease surveillance and rebuild a resilient health system, WHO requires US$ 141.5 million in 2025, including a US$ 56.4 million emergency flash appeal. With an 81% funding gap, urgent support is needed to prevent further deterioration. 

On 17 March, the Ninth Brussels Conference on Syria will convene to mobilize global support and resources for the country’s transition. Ahead of the conference, WHO calls for a well-managed shift from humanitarian aid to long-term recovery, greater investment in rebuilding Syria’s health workforce and predictable, multi-year funding to ensure continuity of care and stability. 

Media contacts: 

For WHO: 
In Damascus, Syria: Halah Kabash, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  
In Gaziantep, Türkiye: Mrinalini Santhanam, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Holding on to hope: Syria’s health workers look to the future

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15 March 2025, Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic – During 14 years of conflict, Syria’s health workers served tirelessly on the frontlines, braving airstrikes to deliver babies, rescuing the wounded from rubble and keeping hospitals functioning.

With Syria now at a hopeful crossroads, their voices tell a story of resilience, but also of a health system under immense strain. As Syria moves forward, ensuring a functioning health system with trained, equipped and supported health workers will be critical for long-term recovery and stability.

“We must not wait for stability to return. We must shape it.” – Khawla Al-Najjar, midwife, Aleppo

Photo credit: WHOPhoto credit: WHOIn Aleppo, midwife Khawla has delivered babies in the darkest moments of Syria’s crisis. 

“I used to walk more than four hours under fire, moving from one village to another, knowing I was the only health provider for safe deliveries. I never knew if I'd return to my family, but it never stopped me. Seeing a newborn healthy and safe motivated me to keep going," Khawla says. 

Like so many others, Khawla has endured profound hardships, yet she remains unwavering in her belief that Syria can heal. “Mothers trusted me with their lives – I couldn’t let fear stop me.”

“We are exhausted from the conflict, but ready to rebuild.” Dr Firas Mustafa Shash, surgeon, Aleppo

Photo credit: WHOPhoto credit: WHODr Firas Mustafa Shash, a general surgeon at the Al-Taalouf Charity Association clinic in rural Aleppo and a resident doctor at Al-Razi Hospital in Aleppo City, describes the immense pressures healthcare workers face.

“Most hospitals here struggle to function, keeping us in constant crisis mode. Every day brings impossible decisions – patients needing intensive care but lacking enough beds.”

In rural Aleppo, Dr Firas sees 20 to 40 patients daily, many elderly, children, or displaced. With the nearest fully equipped hospital over 110 kilometers away, accessing timely care is challenging.

Yet Dr Firas remains hopeful. “Every patient treated brings Syria closer to healing. If we rebuild hospitals, restore medical training, and invest in healthcare workers, we can revive Syria’s health system.”

“No training prepared me for the heartbreak I’ve endured.” Hala, nurse, Hama

Photo credit: WHOPhoto credit: WHOIn Hama, nurse Hala from Al-Birr and Social Services Association remembers her most painful moment. 

“One day, in the middle of a routine procedure, I saw my friend wheeled into the clinic, paralyzed from a missile strike. That moment shattered me.” 

Despite daily hardships, Hala continues her work, often staying beyond her shift to compensate for staff shortages. “Our hospital lacks essential equipment and often runs out of basic medicines, making our jobs harder.” 

“I dream of a health system where no patient is left waiting and impossible decisions aren't necessary – where patients receive care without fearing tomorrow's closures due to funding shortages,” she adds. 

Keeping humanitarian health services running and supporting health workers who carry out this life-saving care are essential as Syria moves toward recovery. A well-planned transition will ensure lifesaving care continues while rebuilding begins. Given ongoing fragility, interruptions in humanitarian aid could worsen vulnerabilities, leaving even more people without care.

“I hope to see more women involved in rebuilding Syria’s healthcare.” Abeer Al-Suwaid, physiotherapist, Sarmada, Idlib

Photo credit: WHOPhoto credit: WHOAt Sham Children’s Hospital in Sarmada, Abeer helps young patients regain mobility. 

“I helped a child take her first steps after surgery despite intense pain," Abeer recalls. "Women health workers often provide special attention and care, especially comforting to children.” 

Hospitals like Abeer's provide care without patient fees thanks to donor support, but without sustained funding, these critical services could disappear. 

“Investing in health workers, especially women who bring unique perspectives, is key for recovery,” says Abeer.

“The hardest days are when our patients' needs are unmet.” Dr Wedad Alrasheed, physician, Al-Bab, Aleppo

Photo credit: WHOPhoto credit: WHOIn Al-Bab, Aleppo, Dr Wedad examines a child who suffers from a severe ear infection and breathing difficulties. Meanwhile, the waiting room is filled with patients waiting anxiously. Like many colleagues, Dr Wedad often works long hours, feeling the heavy weight of the workload.

Years of persistent underfunding have stripped resources, forcing many doctors to work unpaid, underpaid, or voluntarily.

“I envision a future where investment in education and training strengthens Syria’s health system, allowing doctors and nurses to return,” says Dr Wedad.

“A patient’s smile keeps us going.” Intisar Al-Muhaimid, nurse, Deir ez-Zor

Photo credit: WHOPhoto credit: WHOIn Deir ez-Zor, nurse Intisar Al-Muhaimid has served tirelessly for 29 years, including at Al-Furat Hospital. Throughout the conflict, Intisar and colleagues have fought outbreaks of infectious diseases threatening already vulnerable communities. 

“Our work is about helping people,” Intisar says. “A patient's smile or a simple ‘thank you’ keeps us motivated.” 

Intisar hopes Syrians who left will return to help rebuild the country. “I wish we expand our services, secure resources and have enough staff to provide quality care.” 

More than half of Syria’s health facilities are non-functional, severely limiting access to essential care.  Shortages of medical supplies, outdated equipment, and damaged infrastructure continue to strain services. While many hospitals and clinics operate at minimal capacity.

“We need to upgrade our skills to meet today’s challenges.” – Abeer Kdib, nurse, Deir ez-Zor 

Photo credit: WHOPhoto credit: WHOAbeer Kdib, a nurse at the National Hospital in Deir ez-Zor for 27 years, frequently contends with misinformation complicating patient care. 

“Rumours spread quickly, causing confusion and fear,” she says. “We need more healthcare professionals trained to address emerging challenges like misinformation.” 

Despite these difficulties, Abeer remains dedicated. “Seeing patients recover and smile as they leave the hospital is our greatest reward.”

We need a new generation of skilled health professionals.” – Dr Noran Al Faran, physician, Hama 

Photo credit: WHOPhoto credit: WHO“We’ve treated children who've lost entire families. We’ve saved lives only to see them return days later, injured again.” 

Dr Noran believes the future depends on strong medical education. “Rebuilding medical schools and hospitals, and ensuring the next generation has the right skills is essential.” 

Between 50% to 70% of Syria’s health workforce has left the country, increasing pressure on the remaining workers. Investment in medical education programmes is needed to sustain emergency and routine services.

“I dream of a Syria where ambulances respond to accidents, not bombings.” – Borhan Jasem Kleeb, paramedic, Azaz 

Photo credit: WHOPhoto credit: WHOBorhan remembers the day his ambulance was hit while responding to an airstrike in Homs in 2012. “That day made me realize I wanted to dedicate my life to helping others in emergencies.” 

Borhan lost his entire family in the 2011–2014 siege of Homs. Married now, with 4 children, he continues to serve as a paramedic. 

Rebuilding trust and ensuring sustainable health care requires more than resilience. It is crucial to strengthen leadership, management and funding. Effective governance ensures aid reaches where it is most needed, delivering long-term, reliable care. 

 “As our country shifts towards hopeful leadership, we – as Syrians – must take full responsibility for rebuilding our homeland,” says Borhan. 

“Rebuilding is more than roads and buildings, it means a trusted health care system that protects people, bringing peace and stability.”

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