Abstract
To analyze under-5 mortality rates and leading causes in Brazil and states in 1990 and 2015, using the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2015 estimates. The main sources of data for all-causes under-5 mortality and live births estimates were the mortality information system, surveys, and censuses. Proportions and rates per 1,000 live births (LB) were calculated for total deaths and leading causes. Estimates of under-5 deaths in Brazil were 191,505 in 1990, and 51,226 in 2015, 90% of which were infant deaths. The rates per 1,000 LB showed a reduction of 67.6% from 1990 to 2015, achieving the proposed target established by the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The reduction generally was more than 60% in states, with a faster reduction in the poorest Northeast region. The ratio of the highest and lowest rates in the states decreased from 4.9 in 1990 to 2.3 in 2015, indicating a reduction in socioeconomic regional disparities. Although prematurity showed a 72% reduction, it still remains as the leading cause of death (COD), followed by diarrheal diseases in 1990, and congenital anomalies, birth asphyxia and septicemia neonatal in 2015. Under-5 mortality has decreased over the past 25 years, with reduction of regional disparities. However, pregnancy and childbirth-related causes remain as major causes of death, together with congenital anomalies. Intersectoral and specific public health policies must be continued to improve living conditions and health care in order to achieve further reduction of under-5 mortality rates in Brazil.
Highlights
Under-5 mortality rates constitute a key indicator in the assessment of the health status of a population
The number of under-5 deaths in Brazil presented an important reduction from 191,505 in 1990 to 51,226 in 2015,shown in Figure 1 according to age groups
It is possible to notice a change in the proportions of deaths by age between the periods: in 1990, the highest number of deaths was in the postneonatal period (28-364 days), representing approximately 44% of under-5 deaths, followed by the early neonatal (0–6 days), childhood (1–4 years) and late neonatal (7–27 days)
Summary
Under-5 mortality rates (or child mortality rates) constitute a key indicator in the assessment of the health status of a population. Its inclusion in the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) from 1990–20151, and in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the period until 20302, emphasizes its importance. In this sense, the follow-up of child mortality represents an opportunity to develop preventive strategies, addressed to reducing the risk of death in this age group by using public policies related to children’s health. The current levels are still high[4]; it is important to assess the performance of this indicator per state to identify regional inequalities. The analysis of the leading causes of death in childhood is relevant to define effective preventive actions
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
