IN the 1930s, Finland had one of the worst infant mortality rates, whereas now it enjoys one of the lowest mortality rates, and Finnish mothers have been found to be the happiest in the world.
Finland managed this change by introducing a Free Baby Box containing new-born baby-care items, given to every new mother for the past 75 years.
The box acts like a baby crib, and has a mattress at the bottom, a blanket, a number of sheets for the blanket and mattress to help keep the newborn warm and clean.
Since pneumonia is among the leading causes of infant deaths, the box also includes many bodysuits, romper suits and leggings. It also includes socks, mittens, hats, knitted overalls, balaclava, light hooded suits and booties.
The box also contains towels, nail-cutters, scissors, hairbrush, toothbrush, bath thermometer, nappy creme, washcloth and washable nappy sets. These days, a picture book and teething toys are also included. In Pakistan, this box should also include anti- mosquito lotions and a net.
The box, a gift from the Finnish government, is available to every citizen, as long as they visit their doctor in the first three months of pregnancy.
This helps entice the expectant mothers to visit the doctor during the crucial initial months. New parents are not aware of a baby’s needs and the items in the box provides for all eventualities.
If a similar scheme is developed for Pakistan, we can reduce infant mortality rate and achieve the UN MDG targets.
Engr Shahryar Khan Baseer
Peshawar
Published in Dawn, October 28th, 2015
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