HIV hits health progress

Countries that are suffering from high levels of HIV are also making less progress towards health goals than other nations, experts have claimed.

Places that are experiencing conflict or economic hardship are also faring less well at meeting United Nations health goals, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The annual World Health Statistics report revealed that the world's highest child mortality rates are in Africa, with 145 deaths of children under five per 1,000 live births on average regionally.

In addition, the worst rate was in Sierra Leone, with 262 deaths, followed by Afghanistan with 257 deaths per 1,000 live births. Sub-Saharan Africa also has the globe's poorest maternal mortality rate.

It was concluded by WHO that countries that spend more money on health are generally hitting targets more regularly.

TB and malaria were singled out as diseases that progress has been made towards tackling.

There are 193 WHO member countries that are all aiming to meet the UN Millennium Development Goals.

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