[ Flyer ] [Tentative Programme ] 

Despite significant efforts by global health champions, achieving the maternal and child health targets outlined in SDG 3 remains a distant goal. According to WHO, approximately 287,000 women died during and after pregnancy and childbirth, in 2020—mostly due to preventable causes such as hypertension, infections, and severe bleeding. Likewise, unsafe deliveries, lack of immunization, malnutrition, and poor hygiene and sanitation continue to drive high infant mortality rates in developing countries like Pakistan.

As maternal and child health remains a global priority, digital health technologies—including telehealth, AI, and mobile health solutions—are transforming healthcare delivery by improving access, monitoring, and outcomes for mothers and newborns. Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS), pioneer for technology-enabled healthcare in collaboration with Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), is organizing a panel discussion to explore the impact of digitalization on maternal and child healthcare. The discussion will focus on how virtual consultations, remote monitoring, mobile health apps, and AI-driven solutions are enhancing prenatal, postnatal, and infant care by strengthening maternal health monitoring, reducing pregnancy risks, enhancing immunization efforts, and supporting new mothers. Additionally, the panel will address both the opportunities and challenges of integrating digital innovations into maternal and child healthcare.

This discussion is being held in comemoration of  World Health Day, observed annually on April 7. The 2025 theme, "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures," underscores the urgent need to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths and to prioritize women’s long-term health and well-being.

Key Discussion Points:

• Expanding Access – How telehealth is bridging healthcare gaps for expectant mothers in remote areas
• AI & Predictive Analytics – The role of AI in early risk detection and intervention for maternal and infant health
• mHealth & Digital Solutions – The impact of mobile apps for pregnancy tracking, breastfeeding support, and newborn care
• Strengthening Immunization & Child Health – Leveraging digital health tools to improve vaccination coverage and child nutrition
• Challenges & Opportunities – Overcoming digital health adoption barriers in low-resource settings

Mode of discussion: Online