April 7, 2005
For Immediate Release

News Release

Public Health Agency of Canada Releases Maternal and Child Report on World Health Day

OTTAWA, April 7 - The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of State (Public Health), today announced the Public Health Agency of Canada has prepared a Report on Maternal and Child Health in Canada that demonstrates, overall, the health of mothers and children in Canada is among the best in the world.

"Universal access to health services in our country, ensuring most women in Canada receive high-quality care during pregnancy and childbirth helps explain why Canada has some of the best maternal and early childhood survival rates globally, "said Minister Bennett. "In addition, more and more women are engaging in healthy behaviours during pregnancy and successful public health strategies, such as immunization and the folic acid fortification of foods, are in place."Relatively high levels of education and economic well-being further contribute to Canadians' overall good health.

Minister Bennett pointed out other factors that contribute to this favourable situation. For example, one measure Canadians can take to reduce risks to their children's health is to ensure they are properly immunized. The Government of Canada has invested $300 million to support the introduction of new and recommended childhood and adolescent vaccines designed to help prevent serious illness. In addition, community-based programs, such as Aboriginal Head Start, Community Action Program for Children and the Canada Prenatal Nutrition Program, reach thousands of families and children living in conditions of risk.

The Minister also noted that, while Canada can be proud of its maternal and early childhood survival rates, the Report also references emerging challenges and existing health disparities, particularly in Aboriginal communities. Increases in the numbers of preterm births and obesity rates each pose increased risks, for example, while poor and socially marginalised populations remain at a higher risk.

Today is World Health Day, the flagship day for the World Health Organization (WHO) . The objective each year is to raise global awareness on a specific health topic of concern. This year's theme is Healthy Mothers and Children - "Make Every Mother and Child Count".

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Media Inquiries:

Tricia Geddes
Office of the Minister of State (Public Health)
613-941-8081