LESSON 2.1

Children’s Health: Globally

Key Facts: Child Health Globally

  • In 2015, 5.9 million children < 5 years of age died
  • Over 50% of child deaths are preventable
  • Leading causes of death:
    • Preterm birth and associated complications
    • Birth asphyxia
    • Pneumonia
    • Diarrheal diseases
    • Malaria
    • Approximately 45% of child deaths are associated with malnutrition
  • Children’s risk of dying is highest during the neonatal period (i.e., first 28 days of life).
  • Annually:
    • 2.7 million infants die during the first 28 days of life
    • 50% occur within the first 24 hours of life
    • In addition, approximately 2.7 million stillbirths occur
  • The most critical period for infant survival is the first 48 hours after birth
    • Recommendation: To have the mother and infant receive follow-up care within 48 hours after birth to prevent & treat illness, assist with breastfeeding as needed

Source: WHO Child Health, 2015

 

A key health indicator globally is the death rate of children less than 5 years of age. Children’s survival is directly correlated with socio-economic status of the family, geographic region where the child resides, and maternal survival and educational level. Importantly, more than 50% of child deaths are preventable.