Abstract:
Infant mortality rates (IMR) and under-five
mortality rates (U5MR) are sensitive
indicators of population and child health;
and under-five mortality is one of the
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). IMR and
U5MR have declined globally, but the degree
of progress varies from country to country.
Rwanda is a country where there is evidence
of substantial decline in childhood
mortality. This study analyzes the effects of
several socio-demographic characteristics of
children, mothers and households, as well as
health and health care indicators on
childhood mortality in Rwanda using data from
the Rwanda Demographic and Health Surveys
implemented in 1992, 2000, 2005, and 2007-08.
The data are analyzed using synthetic cohort
life tables and survival analysis methods.
The analysis shows that multiplicity of
birth, birth interval, antenatal care by a
health professional, delivery by a health
care professional, full immunization of
children, mother's education, and urban/rural
residence account for 52 percent of the
overall decline in infant mortality between
2005 and 2007-08. During the same period,
multiplicity of birth, birth interval,
antenatal care by a health professional,
delivery by a health care professional, full
immunization of children, mother's education,
mother's use of contraception, and household
possession of a mosquito net account for 97
percent of the overall decline in under-five
mortality. It is evident from this analysis
that full immunization, contraceptive use,
mosquito net distribution and professional
health assistance at delivery should continue
to be increased.
Childhood Mortality in Rwanda: Levels, Trends, and Differentials (PDF, 1054K)