STUDY OF THE CAUSES OF MORTALITY IN CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS OF AGE IN CHAHARMAHAL AND BAKHTIYARI PROVINCE, IRAN

Abstract

In this study the causes of mortality in children less than 5 years of age has been investigated. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, results were analysed by a descriptive analytic method. The investigation was carried out among 597 children less than 5 years including 296 boys and 301 girls. The sample was selected by census method and the necessary information was collected using questionnaire and documented family records in the local health houses. The results of interviews and filed records showed that the prevalent causes of mortality in children under 5 years in this area were prematurely in order of decreasing, low birth weight, respiratory infections, accidents, non-contiguous and diarrhoeal diseases. About one-fourth of the causes of mortality still remain unknown.