This indicator quantifies the
prevalence of child mortality before the age of five, expressed as the number of deaths per 1,000 live births within a specified reference period. It serves as a vital
measure of child health and healthcare access, reflecting both systemic health challenges and the
effectiveness of interventions. For Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), the reference spans a decade prior to the survey, capturing long-term trends, whereas Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) often utilize a shorter timeframe of three to five years, providing a more immediate snapshot of child mortality dynamics. By evaluating changes over time, this metric aids in understanding the impacts of policies and programs aimed at reducing preventable deaths among young children, offering critical insights into public health strategies and resource allocation.
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