Publication:

Socioeconomic determinants of infant and under - five mortality, in wad-madani pediatric teaching hospital- Gezira State, Sudan

Background Infant and child mortality constitute the highest rate in the developing world, compared to the mortality of other age groups. Sudan is one of the countries were infant and children are under risk. This study was done in Wad-Madani Pediatric Teaching Hospital, to determine the association between the socio-economic factors and basic life services differences and high level of infant and under- five mortality.

Methods The study utilized cross sectional, hospital based study. The data were collected by using structured questionnaire addressed to 96 mothers in their reproductive age (15- 49 years), experienced infant and under- five death in the hospital in the study period. The data were analyzed descriptively and then by statistical test based on chi- squire conducted to determine the relationship between death of infant and children and socio- economic factors.

Results Our study revealed, differences in mortality levels are related to community differences and differences in living condition. Infant mortality was higher than child mortality. Indicators like birth order, birth interval, mother education, and distance for health services, have great impacts on infant and under- five mortality.

Conclusions The study recommended that there is a real need to continue sensitizing the public about dangers associated with early child bearing, short birth interval, and hence stress upon family planning. Increasing level of education of the parents was recommended for further utilization of health services, good antenatal care, and self learning about family planning, nutrition during pregnancy and breast feeding.