Faith-base Stakeholder Engagement
( Religion as A Social Determinant of Maternal Health )
Abstract
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) is pregnancy complication affecting maternal and
fetal well-being, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality rates globally and
nationally in Ghana. While clinical factors are often the focus of research, the role religion as a
Social Determinant of Maternal Health is increasingly recognized. This concept note provides a
brief background on APEC Ghana’s 1-year stakeholder engagement with faith-based
stakeholders leaders and those in-training to explore the influence of religious beliefs and
practices on maternal health, particularly concerning HDP. By examining the interplay between
religion and health-seeking behaviors, social support and healthcare access. This engagement
seeks to identify culturally relevant interventions that can improve outcomes for pregnant women
with HDP.
Aims :
- Discuss HDP and how religion influences knowledge and outcomes of HDP and utilization of sexual and reproductive health resources
- Identify the extent to which religious leaders and religion could be engaged to improve maternal and reproductive health outcomes related to HDP.
Objectives :
- To increase understanding of how religious beliefs and practices affect maternal health specifically regarding HDP
- To enhanced understanding of the interplay between religion and maternal health, specifically regarding HDP
- To better understanding of community-based interventions that involve religious leaders to promote healthy pregnancy practices and encourage timely medical care.
