About Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone is one of the poorest countries globally, ranking 182nd out of 189 countries on the Human Development Index. The challenges are significant, especially in the health sector, where critical issues persist, severely affecting children and mothers.
Key Health and Socioeconomic Facts:
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Economic Hardship: Nearly 60% of Sierra Leoneans live below the national poverty line, with many surviving on less than $1.90 a day (World Bank).
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Healthcare System Limitations: There is a severe shortage of healthcare facilities and professionals, hindering effective medical care (WHO Afro).
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Infant Mortality Rate: It is distressingly high, with 72 infants dying per 1,000 live births (World Bank Open Data).
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Child Mortality Rate: The under-five mortality rate is also alarming at 105 deaths per 1,000 live births (UNICEF). This means that out of 100 children, more than 10 children will die before their 5th birthday.
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Maternal Health: The maternal mortality rate stands at 443 per 100,000 live births, with significant gaps in emergency obstetric care and trained healthcare personnel (UNICEF).
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Malaria: This disease is particularly prevalent and deadly, affecting mainly children under five and pregnant women. Malaria accounts for over 38% of hospital consultations, and the disease's prevalence was 22% in 2021 (WHO Afro).
These health statistics highlight a dire need for ongoing support and improvements in healthcare access and quality to combat the high rates of preventable diseases and improve overall health outcomes in Sierra Leone.
The Need
The Bo Children’s Hospital is crucial for the children in Bo, Sierra Leone:
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Vital Access to Specialized Care: As the only children's hospital outside of Freetown, it provides essential healthcare that would otherwise be unavailable in the region.
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Fighting Preventable Deaths: The hospital tackles deadly yet preventable diseases like malaria and pneumonia. Without it, many children would face significantly higher risks of dying from these common illnesses.
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Filling a Critical Gap: Situated in Bo, an area with limited medical resources, the hospital serves as the primary source of medical care. Without it, many families would have nowhere to turn for pediatric care.
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Preventing Widespread Disease: The hospital’s vaccination and health education programs are vital in preventing outbreaks of diseases such as measles and whooping cough. Without these services, preventable diseases could spread unchecked, increasing illness and mortality rates.
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Life-Saving Interventions: By providing timely and effective treatments, the hospital significantly improves survival rates for young patients. Without this hospital, simple treatable conditions could prove fatal.
This hospital is not just a facility; it's a lifeline, ensuring that children in one of Sierra Leone's most vulnerable regions have a fighting chance at a healthier life.