Journal Article

Assessment of Infant Mortality Rate of Kaduna State with African Regional Standards: A Case of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika, Zaria

Abstract

Infant mortality rate (IMR) is an internationally recognized indicator of the overall health, wellbeing and quality of life of a population. Cognizance of the sustainable development goal number 3 (SDG 3) that is to ensure healthy life for all at all age. The aim of this study was to compare the infant mortality rate of north-western Nigeria with African regional standard with established standards. The data were obtained from the existing birth and death register of 2018 from health information management department, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) Shika, Zaria. IMR was calculated using conventional method and chi- square test was used to evaluate the association between survival status and sex of an infant. A total of 1120 live births and 158 deaths were recorded, yielding an IMR of 139 deaths per 1000 live births which is almost 3 times higher than the regional standard. The study further found out that the survival of an infant is independence of sex of an infant. The infant mortality rate (IMR) is greater than the regional standard, this sharp disparity indicates that some populations continue to bear the heaviest burden of infant death and further conclude that the survival of an infant is independence of sex. The findings call for government to improve access to quality health service for all and communities should participate in discussions on health issues and demand their right to health.

Download pdf