Infant mortality refers to the death of an infant before their first birthday. It is a key indicator of the overall health of a population and reflects the effectiveness of health care systems, maternal health, and social conditions. High rates of infant mortality can signal significant health issues within a community or country.
This issue matters greatly for health because it highlights the challenges that families and societies face in ensuring the survival and well-being of their youngest members. Reducing infant mortality is a priority for public health efforts worldwide. Improvements in medical care, nutrition, sanitation, and education have all played vital roles in decreasing infant death rates over the years.
The body does not function independently; rather, it relies on many systems working together to support life. For infants, proper nutrition, healthy development, and access to medical care are essential for survival. Factors such as maternal health during pregnancy, access to prenatal care, and safe delivery practices contribute to an infant's ability to thrive after birth.
It is important to note that while some factors influencing infant mortality, such as congenital conditions, cannot be changed, many others are preventable. Efforts to educate parents and caregivers about safe practices can help reduce risks and improve infant survival rates.