PROXIMATE DETERMINANTS OF CHILDHOOD MORTALITY IN SELECTED DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

Kwamena Dickson, University of Cape Coast
Castro Ayebeng, univ
Joshua Okyere, School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Queensgate, Huddersfield, England, United Kingdom

Childhood mortality remains a critical public health issue in many developing countries. Despite progress in reducing childhood mortality globally, disparities persist, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. There is a need for comprehensive studies across multiple countries to understand the proximate determinants and inform targeted interventions. The study used Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from eight developing countries (Angola, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Tanzania). We analyzed a total sample of 73,363 children under five years. Descriptive analysis and multivariate hierarchical logistic regression modelling were performed in STATA 17. Nigeria has the highest rates of childhood mortality, with neonatal mortality at 39 deaths per 1,000 live births, infant mortality at 67 per 1,000 live births, and under-five mortality at 132 per 1,000 live births. Children born to mothers in the poorest wealth index had higher odds of neonatal mortality (aOR: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.03-1.57), infant mortality (aOR: 1.25; 95% CI: 1.04-1.49), and under-five mortality (aOR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.16-1.60). Targeted interventions to reduce socio-economic disparities, and enhance maternal health and childcare practices are essential to reducing childhood mortality in developing countries. Addressing these proximate determinants can contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets related to child survival.

Keywords: Health and Morbidity, Children, Adolescents, and Youth, Mortality and Longevity

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