Investment in women's health important for global development

"Throughout my tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives and on the Committee on Appropriations, I have had the opportunity to help shape U.S. development assistance. And I am proud of the United States' leadership in providing support and funding for critical global health initiatives that both save lives and strengthen our position in the world," Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) writes in The Hill's "Congress Blog." "While we have made incredible gains over the years, there is still more to be done and I am committed to ensuring the U.S. continues to reach those most in need," she continues, adding, "One of the most important ways we can help is by investing in women's health. ... Addressing the nutritional needs of women and children is another important investment that we must make."

"Ensuring that women and their families have access to the nutritious food they need to grow up healthy and strong creates a positive ripple effect across society as a whole," DeLauro writes, noting, "We know, for example, that the right nutrition for mothers and young children could improve a country's GDP by at least two percent." She continues, "Investments like these are crucial steps to improving the health of women globally and, in turn, allowing them to gain better access to the rights and opportunities they deserve." She concludes, "These investments represent the less than one percent of the federal budget that goes to international aid and show an incredible return as women are more able to be active participants in their society and contribute to increased global economic growth, which in the end is to our great benefit" (3/27).