Estimating the Environmental Factors of Gender Disparity in Child Mortality in Nigeria: What Role Does Indoor Air Pollution Play?

Abstract

Indoor air pollution, stemming from traditional and transitional energy sources for cooking and lighting, poses a significant threat in developing countries. Particularly concerning is its impact on child morbidity and mortality, with 1 in 4 deaths of children under five attributed to environmental factors. This study, using the 2013 Demographic and Health Survey in Nigeria, explores the gender-specific environmental effects on child mortality. Contrary to the belief that girls may have higher immunity, the research employs a logit regression estimator and reveals that both male and female children face mortality risks from traditional and transitional cooking methods. Female children, in particular, exhibit higher mortality risks from traditional energy sources, while outcomes for transitional energy are mixed for both genders. Overall, females face a greater risk of mortality due to indoor air pollution from biomass cooking smoke. The multivariable analysis indicates an 81% increased risk of under-5 mortality for girls using traditional fuels, compared to a 62% increased risk for boys. To mitigate these risks, the study recommends adopting modern energy sources, such as liquefied petroleum gas, and raising awareness about the health hazards associated with traditional and transitional energies. Additionally, factors like education, wealth, breastfeeding, and postnatal check-ups are identified as mitigating factors, while a mother’s age, employment, and location amplify the risk of child mortality.