Trend of Infant Mortality in Tanzania
According to the Tanzania Demographic and Health Surveys (TDHS) from 2010 to 2022-2023, the infant mortality rate (IMR) has shown a steady decline over the years:
- 2010: 54 deaths per 1,000 live births
- 2015: 44 deaths per 1,000 live births
- 2016: 41 deaths per 1,000 live births
- 2022-2023: 39 deaths per 1,000 live births
This indicates a significant reduction of approximately 28% in the IMR between 2010 and 2022-2023.
Factors Contributing to the Observed Trend
Several factors have contributed to the observed decline in infant mortality in Tanzania:
- Improved Healthcare: Increased access to healthcare services, including prenatal care, skilled attendance at birth, and postnatal care, has significantly reduced the risk of infant deaths.
- Increased Immunization Coverage: Expanded immunization programs have protected infants from preventable diseases such as measles, whooping cough, and tetanus, which can lead to fatal complications.
- Improved Nutrition: Enhanced nutrition programs, including breastfeeding promotion and food supplementation, have helped to reduce malnutrition and improve infant survival.
- Access to Safe Water and Sanitation: Increased access to clean water and sanitation has reduced the risk of diarrhea and other waterborne diseases, major contributors to infant mortality.
- Education and Empowerment of Women: Improved education and empowerment of women have led to increased awareness of health practices and the importance of accessing healthcare services for both themselves and their children.
- Improved Maternal Health: Advances in maternal health, including access to family planning services, skilled assistance during pregnancy and childbirth, and post-partum care, have contributed to reduced infant deaths.
- Government Initiatives: The Tanzanian government has implemented various initiatives and policies to reduce infant mortality, such as the National Health Strategy, the Primary Health Care Strategy, and the Community-Based Health Care Program.
Conclusion
The decline in infant mortality in Tanzania from 2010 to 2022-2023 is a testament to the country's efforts to improve healthcare, nutrition, and the overall well-being of mothers and infants. Continued investment in these areas is crucial to further reduce infant mortality and ensure the survival and development of future generations.