Africa: Babies dying at birth

Some two million babies born every year in the developing world die on the first day of their lives, the Save the Children charity has said. A report by the charity says most die from preventable causes, such as infections, a difficult birth or low birth weight. It says many of the lives could be saved by simple, cheap techniques. The charity also found it is safest to be a mother in Scandinavian countries - and most dangerous in African ones. The findings recommend increased investment to give young women better education and nutrition, and advocates encouraging skilled attendants to help at births.