Exploring the Influencing Factors for Infant Mortality: A Mixed-Method
Study of 24 Developing Countries Based on Demographic and Health Survey
data
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to discover the prevalence of infant
mortality and to assess how different factors influence infant mortality
in 24 developing countries by utilizing the latest DHS data. Methods:
This study used a mixed-method design to assemble cross-sectional
studies to integrate data from 24 other countries due to a widening
perspective of infant mortality. Most recent available DHS data of 24
different developing countries from the year 2013 to 2019 was used to
conduct the study. Descriptive analysis, binary logistic regression
model, random-effect meta-analysis, and forest plot have been used for
the final analyses. Results: Binary logistic regression model revealed
for Bangladesh that, higher education level of fathers (OR: 0.344, 95%
CI: 0.147; 0.807), being 2nd born or above order infant (OR: 0.362, 95%
CI: 0.248, 0.527), taking ANC (OR: 0.271, 95% CI: 0.192; 0.382 for 1-4
visits), taking PNC (OR: 0.303, 95% CI: 0.216; 0.425) were
statistically significant determinants of lowering infant death. While
carrying multiple fetus (OR: 6.634, 95% CI: 3.247; 13.555) was exposed
as a risk factor of infant mortality. Most significant factors
influencing infant mortality for all 24 developing countries were number
of fetus (OR: 0.193, 95% CI: 0.176; 0.213), taking ANC (OR: 0.356, 95%
CI: 0.311; 0.407) and taking PNC (OR: 0.302, 95% CI: 0.243; 0.375).
Conclusion In this study, the number of the fetus, taking ANC and PNC,
was the most significant factor affecting the risk of infant mortality
in developing countries. So, anticipation and control projects ought to
be taken in the field in regard to these hazard factors.