What does child mortality refer to?

Child mortality specifically refers to the deaths of children under the age of 5. This measure is crucial in assessing the overall health and wellbeing of a population, as it often reflects the effectiveness of health care systems, economic conditions, and the overall quality of life available to families. The age threshold of 5 years is chosen because it captures a critical period in child development where mortality rates are highest, especially in low and middle-income countries.

This metric is commonly utilized in public health and epidemiology to track progress towards global health goals, such as those established by the World Health Organization, in reducing child deaths and improving maternal and infant health. By focusing on deaths occurring before the age of 5, it highlights the vulnerabilities faced by young children and the importance of interventions during early childhood.