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1.2 The Global context
Some causes for concern (extracted from WHO sources)
- 57 countries have critical shortages in healthcare workers, equivalent to 2.4 m doctors, nurses and midwives.
- The lifetime risk of death in pregnancy is 1 in 13 in sub Saharan Africa (1 in 4005 in western countries)
- Roughly 1in 5 children never reach the age of 5 years in many African countries
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Rapid population growth; HIV and the resurgence of opportunistic diseases such as TB; worsening poverty and the exodus of local healthcare professionals, have all contributed to an increase in the health needs of the resource poor countries during the last three decades.
If we, as Christians, are going to take the words of Isaiah 58 seriously, it is fundamental for us to be involved in global health. This enables those of us who live in affluence and security to identify with, and serve those who have slender resources and little choice; those who are marginalised in the great economic drive for growth and prosperity. If Isaiah 58 is etched into our consciences, then it is simply not acceptable to remain unmoved and inactive.
Throughout the history of the Christian Church there have been those who have been prepared to stand up and be counted, to use their professional skills, the fruit of a privileged training, to serve the poor and needy. Globally today, opportunities must not be lost if we are to prove that the church is alive to the needs of those in less developed countries (LDCS). At the same time, it is a real privilege for us as Christians to be able to work alongside and learn from our colleagues the LDCs.
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Previous Article (1.1 The Christian imperative)
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Acknowledgements
My thanks to Chris Lavy, Eldryd Parry, Ian Spillman and Nick Wooding, all of whom have worked overseas and have a continuing involvement, for their helpful comments and advice.
First edition 1994 - Entitled ‘A Medical Missions Handbook’ by Peter Saunders.
Second Edition 1998 (updated April 2000)
Third Edition September 2003 - by Peter Armon
Fourth Edition 2007 – renamed ‘Working Abroad’ - totally revised & rewritten by Peter Armon
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DISCLAIMER
While seeking to be accurate in all the details contained in this document, CMF cannot be held responsible for the information contained in this booklet. The reader should double check the information for him/herself
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