Introduction
Algeria, nestled in North Africa, is rich in history and cultural diversity. Over the years, it has made commendable progress in various sectors, notably in health. This study examines the health outcomes in Algeria using data from the World Health Organization and aims to understand the broader effects of these outcomes on the population’s general health (World Health Statistics, 2015).
Based on the life expectancy, infant mortality rate (IMR), and maternal mortality ratio (MMR), Algeria appears to have a healthcare system that meets the basic needs of its population but has specific areas that require focused attention and improvement. Due to its advantageous location, Algeria has become a melting pot of cultures, with Berber, Arab, and French influences leaving their distinct imprints. The country’s transition from a French colony to an independent state has altered its socio-political environment, impacting many fields, including health.
WHO Table 9 Analysis
With a growing population of 39,208,000, 70% of Algerians have made cities their home (World Health Statistics, 2015). There are potential drawbacks to this urban orientation. On the one hand, urban areas frequently provide better access to healthcare, but on the other hand, they can also be havens for sedentary lifestyles and pollution. A robust 90 percent birth civil registration coverage demonstrates an effective administrative system. However, the flagrant lack of a cause-of-death registration system could jeopardize the country’s efforts to confront particular health issues head-on.
A relatively young population is suggested by a crude death rate of 5.7 per 100 and a total fertility rate of 2.8. This youth bulge can be beneficial if managed adequately with healthcare and educational resources. The impressive rates of primary school enrollment (M=98%, F=97%) shed light on Algeria’s dedication to education. Algeria is a middle-income country with a gross national income per person of $12,990. (Bilal et al., 2021). The significant number of cell phone users (102) is a testament to the country’s technological advancements.
WHO Table 1 Analysis
72 is a respectable life expectancy at birth, with women outliving men (74) on average (70). These differences in life expectancy between men and women are not particular to Algeria and can be attributed to various biological, societal, and medical factors. A healthy 62-year-old life expectancy at birth raises the possibility of later-life health issues. Although not alarmingly high, the infant mortality rate (21.6) and the under-five mortality rate (25.2) highlight the urgent need to support maternal and child health initiatives (Dagher & Linares, 2022). These health indicators for the Algerian populace can be further improved with continued investments in healthcare infrastructure and awareness campaigns.
WHO Table 2 Analysis
With a maternal mortality ratio of 89, there are still many obstacles to be overcome in the area of maternal health. This number is an essential gauge of a country’s health system, and for Algeria, it indicates the need for improved prenatal and postnatal care. Poor healthcare infrastructure, a lack of trained medical personnel, and socioeconomic barriers that prevent women from receiving timely medical care are frequently to blame for high maternal mortality (World Health Statistics, 2015). A multifaceted strategy that includes community awareness campaigns and the development of healthcare infrastructure is needed to address these issues.
Economic and Employment Overview
Algeria’s economy depends heavily on oil and gas, with the energy industry being its primary source of income. Algeria is vulnerable to fluctuations in the price of oil due to its heavy reliance on it. The service sector employs most of Algeria’s workforce, with agriculture and industry following (Bilal et al., 2021). There are initiatives underway to diversify the economy and lessen reliance on oil. Diversification can result in more steady economic growth, lower unemployment rates, and a more resilient economy less susceptible to shocks from outside sources.
Conclusion
Algeria, which is a developing country, has much potential. Its main economic pillars, oil and gas, have served as its engine. Even so, the issue of fair wealth distribution looms large due to the apparent differences between urban centers and rural heartlands. The demographic crystal ball predicts a young population in Algeria in the future, highlighting the need for significant investments in health and education. Although the lure of foreign shores tempts many Algerians, the country’s developing infrastructure and policies may tip the scale in favor of remaining home. The health indicators paint a picture of a healthcare system with room for improvement, particularly in maternal and child health, even though it meets patients’ basic needs.
References
Bilal, U., Hessel, P., Pérez-Ferrer, C., Michael, Y. L., Alfaro, T., Tenorio-Mucha, J., Friche, A. a. L., De Fátima De Pina, M., Vives, A., Quick, H., Alazraqui, M., Rodriguez, D. A., Miranda, J. J., & Diez-Roux, A. V. (2021). Life expectancy and mortality in 363 cities of Latin America. Nature Medicine, 27(3), 463–470. Web.
Dagher, R. K., & Linares, D. E. (2022). A Critical Review onthe Complex Interplay between Social Determinants of Health and Maternal and Infant Mortality. Children (Basel), 9(3), 394. Web.
World Health Statistics (2015). World Health Organization 2015. Web.