Differentials and determinants of under-five mortality in Bangladesh

Childhood mortality remains one of the main problems in Bangladesh. Although Bangladesh has made remarkable progress in reducing mortality among under-five children over the last few years but it is still remain high. The purpose of this study is to observe the trends, differentials, and also to identify the determinants, of under-five mortality in Bangladesh. Data from Bangladesh Demographic and health Survey (BDHS)-2007 have been used. By using percentage distribution this study ascertained the differentials of under-five mortality. Also, Chi-square test has been used to identify the factors associated with under-five mortality. Cox proportional hazard model has been applied to find out the determinants of under-five mortality. The study results show that the under-five mortality is higher among children born as multiple births; children with first birth order and 7th or 7+th birth order; children with preceding birth interval less than 18 months; mother’s age at birth less than 20 years; mothers and fathers with no education; children from poor household; mother whose age at first marriage was less than 20 years; children from households without access to improved toilet facilities and improved source of drinking water. The findings of this study suggest that female education, mothers’ knowledge and awareness regarding childhood disease, treatment, immunization and access to child healthcare should be enhanced.