DETERMINANTS OF CHILDHOOD MORTALITY IN NORTHERN NIGERIA: INSIGHTS FROM HOSPITAL DATA

Rhoda Mundi, University of Abuja, Abuja
Samuel Panse Dakyes, Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract The study sought to understand the determinants of childhood mortality in the study area. The objectives were to describe the demographic, socio-cultural and economic characteristics of under five children and their mothers or caregivers in the study area, to identify the major diseases which influence childhood mortality in the study area and to determine the demographic, socio-cultural, economic and environmental factors that influence child mortality in the study area. The data were obtained from eight hospitals in six States and the Federal Capital Territory including in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with health personnel, women, men, religious and community leaders. The data were analyzed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. The results show variations in childhood mortality based on the demographic characteristics of children and maternal demographic, socio-cultural and economic characteristics across the zones. The most perceived environmental risk factor for childhood diseases, with its attendant consequences was indoor and air pollution. The study concluded that it is imperative to factor in caregivers’ characteristics and behaviour in any future policy and programme to reduce under-five mortality in the region.

Keywords: Mortality and Longevity, Health and Morbidity

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