WHO to Strengthen Global NCD Care for Pregnant Women
The World Health Organization (WHO) is developing new guidelines and recommendations to enhance care for pregnant and postpartum women affected by non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. This global initiative aims to address the rising health risks posed by NCDs during pregnancy, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, and improve maternal and child health outcomes worldwide. An expert convening was scheduled for June 30, 2026, to ensure practical implementation of these guidelines.
Key Highlights
- WHO developing new global guidelines for NCD care in pregnancy.
- NCDs significantly increase risks for pregnant women and newborns.
- Indirect causes linked to NCDs account for 23% of maternal deaths.
- Expert consultation held June 30, 2026, for implementation strategy.
- Focus on practical integration into health systems, especially in LMICs.
- Previous WHO guidelines for diabetes and sickle cell anaemia released in 2025.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced significant plans to develop and implement new guidelines aimed at improving the care of pregnant and postpartum women living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This critical global health initiative comes as NCDs such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart conditions, and obesity are increasingly affecting pregnancies worldwide, posing substantial risks to both mothers and their babies.
According to WHO, NCDs are now recognized as a major contributor to poor health among women of reproductive age and are increasingly linked to illness and mortality during pregnancy and childbirth. Global data indicates a concerning shift in the causes of maternal deaths, with indirect causes, many of which are related to NCDs, now accounting for approximately 23% of maternal deaths worldwide. This makes NCDs the second leading cause of maternal mortality, after haemorrhage.
The immediate implications of NCDs during pregnancy are severe, including heightened risks of complications such as pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, babies born either smaller or larger than expected for their gestational age, and higher rates of caesarean sections. For instance, obesity and high blood pressure in pregnancy are known to increase the chances of developing gestational diabetes or hypertensive disorders. The impact extends beyond the immediate pregnancy period, with women experiencing NCDs during gestation facing a significantly higher risk of developing permanent or worsening chronic conditions, particularly cardiovascular disease, later in life. Moreover, their children also have an increased likelihood of developing obesity and other chronic NCDs as they grow into adulthood, highlighting a long-term intergenerational health burden.
The burden of these complications is disproportionately heavy in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where the majority of maternal deaths occur and where chronic diseases are becoming an escalating driver of poor health outcomes. Healthcare systems in these regions often struggle with limited resources and a shortage of specialized personnel, making the effective management of NCDs during pregnancy particularly challenging.
To address these multifaceted challenges, the WHO convened a virtual expert consultation on June 30, 2026. The primary objective of this expert gathering was to provide guidance on the dissemination and practical implementation of new and upcoming clinical guidelines concerning maternal and perinatal health in the context of NCDs. The experts focused on ensuring that any new guideline-derivative tools are practical, adaptable, and responsive to the realities of diverse health systems, especially in resource-constrained settings. This includes finding ways to integrate NCD screening and care directly into existing pregnancy and childbirth services, thereby strengthening the continuity of care across the life course.
It is important to note that the WHO has previously issued guidelines related to NCDs in pregnancy. In 2025, the organization released its first set of guidelines specifically focusing on the management of sickle cell anaemia and diabetes during pregnancy. However, the implementation of these earlier recommendations has presented significant challenges, particularly in countries with a shortage of specialists like endocrinologists and maternal-fetal medicine experts. The current initiative seeks to bridge this gap between theoretical guidelines and real-world application, making sure that new recommendations can be effectively integrated into everyday healthcare practices.
This ongoing effort by the WHO underscores the growing global recognition of NCDs as a critical public health issue impacting maternal and child health. By developing comprehensive, implementable guidance, the WHO aims to equip healthcare providers worldwide with the necessary tools to improve outcomes for millions of pregnant women and their children, ultimately contributing to the reduction of preventable maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main objective of WHO's new guidance on NCD care during pregnancy?
The main objective is to improve the care for pregnant and postpartum women living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. This aims to reduce health risks for both mothers and babies and ensure that healthcare systems, especially in resource-constrained settings, can effectively integrate NCD management into maternal care.
Why are Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) a growing concern in pregnancy?
NCDs are a growing concern because they significantly increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, such as pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, and abnormal birth weights. They also contribute to about 23% of global maternal deaths and can lead to long-term health issues for both mothers and their children.
When did WHO hold the expert consultation for these new guidelines?
The World Health Organization held a virtual expert consultation on NCD care integration during pregnancy on June 30, 2026. This meeting was crucial for ensuring the practical implementation and dissemination of the new guidelines.
What impact will these guidelines have on countries like India?
These guidelines are expected to have a significant impact on countries like India, which are low- and middle-income nations facing a high burden of NCDs and maternal deaths. By providing implementable recommendations, WHO aims to strengthen healthcare systems and improve maternal and child health outcomes, helping to reduce preventable illness and mortality.
Has WHO released any related guidelines previously?
Yes, WHO released its first set of guidelines in 2025, specifically focusing on the management of sickle cell anaemia and diabetes in pregnancy. The current initiative builds upon these previous efforts, aiming to address challenges in implementation and broaden the scope of NCD care during pregnancy.
