Estimation of child mortality in Addis Ababa

Abstract

Abstract:

Estimation of mortality level in children below the age of five may have profound impact on a number of demographic parameters. Childhood mortality data are also useful in assessing the impact of child survival programs and identifying child populations that are at risk. In March 1993 a survey was conducted to assess the child mortality rate in Addis Ababa. In the study a sample of 548 ever married women were interviewed regarding the number of children ever born, surviving and dead. A variant of the original Brass estimation procedure (Trussell's method) which is based on data classified by duration of marriage is applied. Accordingly, the under-five mortality rate (q5) is estimated to be 114 per 1000. The results, therefore, suggested that under five mortality rate remains high in Addis Ababa. Integrated maternal and child health intervention programmes have to be strengthened in order to reduce this high level of child mortality rate.[Ethiop. J. Health Dev. 1995;9(3):140-145]