Denmark Achieves Historic Milestone in Maternal Health

Denmark has become the first country in the European Union to eliminate the mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis, a significant public health achievement recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). This milestone was officially announced on February 27, 2023, following Denmark's successful fulfillment of WHO targets from 2021 to 2024, which included maintaining new infant infections below 50 per 100,000 births and ensuring that at least 95% of pregnant women received testing and treatment.

The Straits TimesDenmark achieves historic milestone in maternal health, first in EU to end mother-to-child HIV, Syphilis

Denmark's achievement is attributed to decades of sustained investment in healthcare, including robust laboratory capacity and integrated screening during pregnancy. The country has implemented rights-based policies that ensure timely screening and treatment for every pregnant woman. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that this success demonstrates the impact of strong political commitment and consistent investment in primary care and maternal health services.

Denmark achieves historic milestone in maternal health, first in EU to end mother-to-child HIV, Syphilis

Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, noted that Denmark's success reflects "strong antenatal care, reliable data systems, and respect for women’s rights." Sophie Løhde, Denmark's Minister for the Interior and Health, stated, "This validation by WHO is a proud moment for Denmark and the result of decades of work by our health-care professionals, midwives, and public health teams to ensure that every pregnant woman receives the screening and care she needs."

Denmark achieves historic milestone in maternal health, first in EU to end mother-to-child HIV, SyphilisThe Straits Times

Denmark's elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis sets a global standard in maternal and child health, joining 22 other countries and territories worldwide that have achieved similar validation by WHO. The country is now working towards the full triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission, which will include the hepatitis B virus, with continued support from WHO.

Denmark achieves historic milestone in maternal health, first in EU to end mother-to-child HIV, SyphilisThe Straits Times

While Denmark's achievement is celebrated, some critics argue that the focus on elimination may overshadow ongoing challenges in maternal health care access and quality in other regions. They emphasize the need for a more comprehensive approach to maternal health that addresses disparities in healthcare access.

Denmark achieves historic milestone in maternal health, first in EU to end mother-to-child HIV, Syphilis

“Being the first country in the EU to reach this milestone is both an honour and a responsibility. We hope our experience can inspire and support other countries on their path to elimination.” — Sophie Løhde, Minister for the Interior and Health

Denmark achieves historic milestone in maternal health, first in EU to end mother-to-child HIV, Syphilis

“The elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis marks a major public health achievement for Denmark,” — Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General

The Straits Times

“This milestone demonstrates that with strong political commitment and consistent investment in primary care and integrated maternal and child health services, countries can protect every pregnant woman and newborn from these diseases.” — Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General

Denmark achieves historic milestone in maternal health, first in EU to end mother-to-child HIV, Syphilis

“strong antenatal care, reliable data systems, and respect for women’s rights.” — Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe

Denmark achieves historic milestone in maternal health, first in EU to end mother-to-child HIV, Syphilis