[20040317]RS21773_世界生殖健康问题：产科瘘管：背景资料和答复.pdf

Congressional Research Service The Library of CongressCRS Report for CongressReceived through the CRS WebOrder Code RS21773March 17, 2004Reproductive Health Problems in the World:Obstetric Fistula: Background Informationand ResponsesTiaji SalaamAnalyst in Foreign AffairsForeign Affairs, Defense, and Trade DivisionSummaryObstetric fistula has gained increased attention in the 108th Congress when anumber of briefings were held to discuss the impact of this debilitating condition onmillions of women. Additionally, H.Con.Res. 447 and H.R. 3810, were introduced torecognize the effects of the affliction, and to reserve a portion of the U.S. contributionto the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for fistula prevention and repair.Finally, P.L. 108-199, 2004 Omnibus Appropriations, provides $1 million to theInternational Medical Corps to expand its fistula repair services in Sierra Leone. It alsosupports the establishment of airborne medical transport services in Africa to fly medicalpersonnel, supplies, and anti-retro viral therapies to rural areas on a regular schedule. It is estimated that at least 2 million women and girls suffer from this afflictionworldwide. Fistula occurs from pro