China has achieved significant reductions in maternal and infant mortality rates, marking continued progress in public health. In 2024, the maternal mortality rate dropped to 14.3 per 100,000 live births, while infant and under-five mortality rates fell to 4 and 5.6 per 1,000, respectively, according to health authorities.
Steady Declines Reflect Healthcare Strengthening
Over recent years, maternal mortality in China has decreased by an average of 4% annually, with infant and under-five mortality rates declining by approximately 5% per year. Officials attribute this progress to expanded healthcare infrastructure, including 3,491 critical care centers for pregnant women, 3,221 neonatal care centers, and over 373,000 obstetricians nationwide.
Breakthroughs in Disease Prevention
Deaths due to birth defects among infants and young children have fallen by more than 30% since 2019. Severe congenital conditions like neural tube defects decreased by 21%, while mother-to-child HIV transmission now occurs in only 1.3% of cases.
Global Health Contributions Expand
China's maternal health expertise has reached 44 countries and regions through medical aid programs. In 2024 alone, Chinese teams assisted with 63,800 deliveries abroad, supporting healthcare systems in areas from Africa to the Middle East.
