Alma Ata Declaration: Journey of Health Promotion on Respiratory Distress Syndrome among Pregnancy and Newborn in Nigeria

Purpose: In the discussion about landmark achievements of primary healthcare (PHC) in Nigeria, health promotion regarding respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in maternal child health (MCH) is considered to be limited. The objective is to determine the landmark achievements in Nigeria with a view to identify health promotion needs.

Methods: This followed a critical narrative review approach. The critical literature search method was adopted as a systematic approach failed to yield any article that satisfies selection criteria, after applying all intended inclusion criteria. Search engines included Google and PubMed as well as government and organizational documents. Major evaluation was 10 years landmark achievement of Alma Ata on MCH program in Nigeria.

Results: There has been fluctuation and relatively slowed % rate of reduction in maternal mortality. Infant mortality has remained higher than national death rate, hence it is encouraging that Nigeria adopted in 2016 Every Newborn Tracking Tool of the Global Strategy progress monitoring. However, no study has focused on RDS in MCH with regards to impact of gas flaring in Delta State.

Conclusion: In the goal of achieving health for all emerged the Alma Ata Declaration on primary healthcare (PHC) being endorsed. Although, report is pending with regards to how much of the goals have been unachieved, major finding is dearth of data regarding MCH program in relation to gas flaring or the associated RDS. Studies have yet to focus on government policy regarding mitigation of RDS associated with gas flaring.