Trends of Under‑Five Mortality in Nineveh (2004–2013): A Time Series Analysis

Abstract

Context: Under‑five mortality rate (U5MR) is the number of deaths since birth up to 5 years of age in a specific year divided by thenumber of live birth (LB) of the same year × 1000. It is a key indicator of child well‑being including health and nutrition status, coverage of child survival interventions, and more broadly of social and economic development. Aim: The aim is to study U5MR and their cause trends in Nineveh Governorate for 10 years (2004–2013). Methodology: Design of the Study: This was a biometric (descriptive) study design. Sample of the Study: Under‑five deaths plus LBs for the years 2004–2013 were taken. Research Settings: This study was carried out in Nineveh Governorate/Northwest of Iraq. Data Sources: The data were taken from vital registration system and death certificates.Outcome Measures: Various rates and proportions in addition to Chi-squared test for trend.Results: <5 MR varied from 17.83 in 2004to 20.28/1000 LB in 2013 being worst in 2007 (26.28/1000LB) most of these deaths were among males. The main causes were respiratorydistress syndrome, sepsis, congenital anomalies, infections, pneumonia, and accidents. Conclusions: About 20 children died every year for each of 1000 LBs before reaching their 5th birthday