Estimated probability of dying before age 5, per 1000 live births (world health report)

Data set notes

European Health for All database

Indicators: 565

Updated: 18 October 2024

Contact: Data and Digital Health Unit (DDH)

The following abbreviations are used in the indicator titles:

• SDR: age-standardized death rates (see HFA-DB user manual/Technical notes, page 13, for details)

• FTE: full-time equivalent

• PP: physical persons

• PPP$: purchasing power parities expressed in US $, an internationally comparable scale reflecting the relative domestic purchasing powers of currencies.

More information: http://www.euro.who.int/en/data-and-evidence/databases/european-health-for-all-database-hfa-db

Indicator notes

Estimated probability of dying before age 5, per 1000 live births (world health report)
Indicator code: E060410.T

These estimates are made by WHO Headquarters using special techniques and are published in the annual World Health Reports. Data from various sources, including surveys, have been used when routine vital statistics were not available or were incomplete. They were also partially harmonized with survey-based estimates used by UNICEF and some other organizations.

These estimates may differ significantly from the official national figures for some countries where the registration of deaths and births is incomplete. The difference can be seen by comparing with the indicator 1070 060401 “Probability of dying before age 5 years per 1000 live births” which is calculated using official mortality, population and live birth data as reported by countries to WHO.

Country/Area notes

No information

General notes

Understanding the Estimated Probability of Dying Before Age 5 Per 1000 Live Births

The estimated probability of dying before age 5 per 1000 live births is a critical health indicator used globally to assess child mortality rates within different regions. This statistic not only reflects the health status of children under five years old but also indicates broader public health conditions, including the effectiveness of healthcare systems, maternal health, and the impact of public health policies. By tracking this data, health organizations and governments can prioritize interventions, improve healthcare services, and ultimately save young lives. The importance of this metric extends beyond mere numbers; it represents the lives of children and the health trajectory of future generations.

Calculating the Estimated Probability of Dying Before Age 5

To calculate the estimated probability of dying before age 5 per 1000 live births, health statisticians use a formula that incorporates various demographic data. The calculation begins with the number of children born in a given year and tracks the number of deaths recorded among this cohort before they reach five years of age. This data is then standardized per 1000 live births to allow for consistent comparisons across different populations and time periods. Accurate data collection from birth and death registries is crucial for this calculation, ensuring that the estimates reflect true mortality rates and can guide effective health policies and programs.

Significance of the Under-Five Mortality Rate

The under-five mortality rate is a vital indicator for understanding global health trends and the effectiveness of health interventions. Governments and health organizations use this data to allocate resources effectively, targeting areas with high child mortality rates. This statistic also helps in monitoring progress towards international health goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those focused on reducing child mortality. For communities, a decreasing under-five mortality rate often correlates with improvements in various factors including nutrition, maternal health, and access to medical care, reflecting overall societal advancements.

Strengths and Limitations of the Under-Five Mortality Rate

While the under-five mortality rate is a valuable indicator, it comes with its own set of strengths and limitations that influence its utility and accuracy.

Strengths

This rate is universally recognized and standardized, making it a reliable benchmark for international health comparisons and studies. It provides a clear focus for child health initiatives and is sensitive to changes in the socio-economic and health landscapes. By tracking this single indicator, policymakers and health professionals can assess the impact of their interventions over time and adjust strategies to improve child health outcomes.

Limitations

However, the accuracy of this indicator heavily depends on the quality of vital registration systems. In regions where birth and death registration is incomplete or inaccurate, the data may not truly reflect the reality, leading to misinformed policies and interventions. Additionally, this rate does not capture the morbidity or the quality of life of survivors, which are also crucial for assessing child health. The indicator’s focus on mortality before age five may also divert attention from health issues affecting children past this age threshold.

Moreover, the under-five mortality rate cannot illustrate immediate changes due to its reliance on historical data. Rapid shifts due to epidemics, natural disasters, or sudden socio-economic changes might not be immediately apparent in the data, potentially delaying responsive measures.

These elements highlight the complexity of using the under-five mortality rate as a standalone measure and underscore the importance of integrating it with other health indicators for a comprehensive view of child health and well-being.