Describe key global causes of illness and death among children.
Discuss risk factors affecting child morbidity and mortality.
Outline cost-effective interventions to reduce childhood illness and death.
Emphasize the importance of immunization and its global coverage challenges.
Address constraints in enhancing child health in low- and middle-income countries and propose solutions.
5.4 million children under 5 died in 2017 (approximately 15,000 daily).
High percentage of child deaths are preventable; with low-income countries having significantly higher rates.
Children’s health closely linked to poverty; access to clean water and sanitation is critical.
Improvements in education and income can enhance child well-being.
Child health is a focus in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Significant decline in under-5 mortality rates over the years, although disparities remain.
Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia see least progress and highest mortality rates.
Table 11-1 outlines SDG indicators related to child health.
Leading causes of death include:
Prematurity
Asphyxia
Congenital anomalies
Infectious diseases (pneumonia and diarrhea)
Contextual variations based on region and income level.
Mortality rates vary significantly by economic status:
0 to 28 days: 2.5 million deaths (46%)
1 month to 11 months: 1.5 million deaths (28%)
1 to 4 years: 1.4 million deaths (26%)
Neonatal deaths remain a critical concern; actions needed to address this.
Social determinants affecting child health:
Poverty
Maternal education
Access to healthcare
Nutritional status
Higher child mortality associated with lower maternal education and socioeconomic status.
Neonatal, Infant, Under-5 Mortality Rates: Key metrics for assessing health outcomes.
Definitions: Understand specific health terms like pneumonia, diarrhea, sepsis, and their relevance to child health.
Vaccinations and routine immunization programs significantly reduce child mortality.
Integrated community care solutions (ORT for diarrhea, antibiotics for pneumonia).
Encourage good nutrition, hygiene practices, and basic healthcare accessibility.
Many factors inhibit healthcare access and effectiveness, particularly in low-income areas.
Gaps in education and healthcare resources need addressing to enhance child outcomes.
Importance of multinational cooperation in tackling global child health issues.
Emphasis on maternal health and nutrition, breastfeeding practices, and healthy complementary feeding.
Micronutrient supplementation (e.g., vitamin A) crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality risks.
Implementing a comprehensive approach spanning pre-pregnancy to early childhood.
Focus on integrated care that addresses multiple health factors simultaneously.
Community engagement to educate and empower families in health practices.
Child health significantly impacts future generations; addressing causes of morbidity and mortality can foster overall development.
Lifesaving interventions exist and must be prioritized and effectively implemented to ensure survival and health of young children.