IM

Ch 11 PBH

Chapter 11: The Health of Young Children

Learning Objectives

  • 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.


Importance of Child Health

  • 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).


Global Child Mortality Trends

  • 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.


Causes of Death in Young Children

  • Leading causes of death include:

    • Prematurity

    • Asphyxia

    • Congenital anomalies

    • Infectious diseases (pneumonia and diarrhea)

  • Contextual variations based on region and income level.


Mortality Data Overview

  • 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.


Major Risks and Determinants

  • Social determinants affecting child health:

    • Poverty

    • Maternal education

    • Access to healthcare

    • Nutritional status

  • Higher child mortality associated with lower maternal education and socioeconomic status.


Key Indicators and Terms

  • 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.


Cost-effective Health Interventions

  • 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.


Challenges to Improving Child Health

  • 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.


Nutritional Interventions

  • 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.


Recommendations for Child Health Improvement

  • 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.


Conclusion

  • 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.