Causes of Child Mortality Rate
Child mortality, or the death of children under the age of five is caused due to number of factors including social, economic, health conditions. Some of the causes are discussed below.
- Diseases: Neonatal cause(53%) and various diseases like pneumonia(15%), diarrhea(12%), measles(3%), are leading causes of child mortality. The problem is more severe in areas with poor health infrastructure.
- Malnutrition: Deficiencies of nutrients like vitamins and minerals, reduces resistance to infections and makes children more susceptible to disease and infections.
- Pre mature Birth and Low Birth Weight: Premature born babies and babies with low birth weight are at a higher risk of mortality and morbidity.
- Lack of Education and awarness: Education of parents education is linked to child health. Lack of awarness and education can lead to delayed healthcare seeking, poor healthcare practice and limited awareness of preventive measures.
- Lack of Access to Healthcare: Limited healthcare facilities, especially in rural or remote areas, can result in delayed or insufficient medical service.
- Poor Maternal Health: The health of the mother during pregnancy and after childbirth have significant impact on child survival.
- Unsafe Water and Sanitation: Contaminated water and inadequate sanitation contribute to the spread of waterborne diseases, like typhoid, cholera and affects the child health.
- Limited Immunization: Incomplete or delayed vaccinations expose children to preventable diseases, increasing the risk of severe illness and mortality.
- Poverty and Socioeconomic Factors: Families within low income group finds it difficult to afford health facailties, and proper nutrition all of which are important for well being of child.
Child Mortality Rate in India
Child Mortality Rate in India has shown improvement over the years and has reduced to 41.9(NFHS-5) deaths per thousand live births from 49.7 (NFHS-4). Child mortality rate or under-five mortality rate is defined as the mortality of children under the age of five per 1,000 live births. It is an important indicator of the health and development of a country.
Various causes of child mortality rate include diseases, malnutrition, and poor healthcare infrastructure. Government initiatives like Poshan Abhiyan, Improving sanitation, access to clean drinking water, and immunization against infectious diseases, can help reduce high rates of infant mortality can provide a better and healthier future for the child.
Table of Content
- What is Child Mortality Rate?
- Child Mortality Rate in India 2023
- Causes of Child Mortality Rate
- Government Initiatives towards Child Mortality Rate
- Steps to reduce Child Mortality Rate
- MCQ Questions on Child Mortality Rate in India For UPSC Exam
- FAQs on Child Mortality Rate in India