Child mortality and household characteristics: is child mortality a question of household type and size?

Allen Kabagenyi, Department of Population Studies, Institute of Statistics & Applied Economics, Makerere University

Uganda has one of the highest Infant Mortality Rates of 76 deaths per 1000 far above the world’s average of 52 deaths /1000 live births. Of those who survive to the first birthday 67 out of 1000 die before reaching their fifth birthday. The study established the relationship between household structure and child mortality. Using survey data on 4,169 respondents in 14 districts of Uganda, Brass’ indirect techniques for mortality estimation were employed to establish the mortality rates. In addition, logistic regression procedures examined factors associated with child mortality. Findings present wide mortality differentials by household type, place of residence, and household size. Mother’s education and children ever born were highly associated with child mortality. Overall, there is unmet need for adult literacy, secondary and above education, sensitization about effects of large households and children ever born.