Child mortality under 5 years has stagnated

Global mortality for children under the age of five has stagnated, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). In 2024, an estimated 4.9 million children under five died, equivalent to one death every six seconds. Although the under-five mortality rate has more than halved since 2000, the rate of reduction has slowed markedly since 2015.

The situation is concerning as the majority of deaths are from preventable causes. Neonatal deaths, those occurring in the first 28 days of life, accounted for 2.3 million deaths, representing 47% of all under-five deaths. This highlights the need to improve maternal, newborn, and child health services.

Geographic inequality in child survival remains significant. Over 80% of all under-five deaths occurred in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia, despite these regions representing less than 60% of global live births. Children living in Sub-Saharan Africa face a risk nearly 14 times higher than those in Europe and Northern America.

The highest risk of under-five mortality is concentrated in a few countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Children from the poorest households, rural areas, and those born to mothers with limited education are most at risk. If current trends continue, the WHO projects over 27 million children will die before reaching their fifth birthday between 2025 and 2030.

Ending preventable child deaths requires strengthening health systems, particularly maternal, newborn, and child health services. Access to skilled health personnel at birth and quality newborn care are crucial, along with improved prevention and treatment of pneumonia, diarrhea, and malaria. Enhancements in nutrition, water, and sanitation are also essential.