Assessment of the causes of infant mortality in uyo local government area, akwa ibom state

Abstract

This study assessed infant mortality in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State with the aim of investigating the causes of infant mortality and examining the contribution of the health professionals in curbing infant mortality in the study area. To achieve these objectives, structured questionnaires were employed. Through the use of the structured questionnaires, data were obtained through systematic random sampling of 399 households along three major zones selected for the study in Uyo Local Government. The hypothesis for the study was tested with regression model using the multiple factors Regression Analysis. The results indicated that non-parental factors such as hereditary neonatal disorders and premature birth are the driving causes of infant mortality in the study area. The study also indicated that the contributions of health professionals are positively felt in the study area. The study concludes that infant mortality is due to preventable non-parental factors. The study recommended that the action to ensure access to quality care and ensuring that no mother or new born dies from a preventable cause must be an urgent priority for every Government.