Doctors play pivotal role in intl campaign

In partnership with UNICEF, Chinese medics help reduce child mortality rate

China has deployed 117 obstetric and pediatric doctors overseas to provide regular medical services for pregnant women and infants and help train local medical workers, the National Health Commission said on Monday.

Chinese medical aid teams delivered 63,800 newborns abroad last year, according to data released by the commission during an event in Beijing marking World Health Day, which this year spotlights maternal and newborn health.

With four-fifths of deaths among children under age 5 occurring in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, China has assisted in 100 campaigns related to maternal and child health in developing countries and worked with UNICEF to carry out health programs targeting pregnant women, newborns and children in eight African nations, Health Minister Lei Haichao said at the event.