Correlates of infant and child mortality in Ethiopia 2005

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Risk of mortality prevails for children with shorter birth interval since their mothers are likely to have poor health. AIM: The aim of the study is to determine the indirect estimation of infant and child mortality in Ethiopia. MEHTODS: The data sources for this study are the 2005 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS).Cox's model is used to assess the association between childhood mortality, and selected socio-economic and demographic variables. Results: The study findings show that childhood mortality declined by 35% during the last five years in Ethiopia, infant mortality declined by 21% and under-five mortality declined by 26%. Mortality rates are still high, however, birth interval, breastfeeding and birth order reflect strong mortality decline in many regions. Birth order, mother's age at childbirth, length of pervious and subsequent birth intervals, and mortality of an older sibling all have large effects on infant and child mortality. Among health interventions strongly associated with reduced childhood mortality. CONCLUSION: It is thus recommended that further research is needed at regional level as well as national level investigation. As per the study, findings can be used as the basis for a number of policy recommendations.