Analysis of child health indicators in Argentina, in connection with millennium development goals set by the United Nations

Abstract

Abstract Aim: In view of the 4th Millennium Development Goal set by the UN, this study aimed at analyzing the epidemiology of mortality of children under age 1 and under age 5 in Argentina between 1990 and 2011, and describing measles vaccination coverage in oneyear-old children between 1990 and 2009. Methods: Epidemiological indicators were measured using national data from secondary sources: Infant mortality rate and mortality rate in children under 5; and percentage of coverage in measles vaccination in Argentina. Results: Results show a 54.2% decrease in infant mortality rate, and 54.5% in mortality of children under 5. The most common causes of death during the first five years of life are usually associated to perinatal problems and congenital anomalies. In relation to measles vaccination coverage, there is a positive evolution of this indicator, reaching 100% coverage in 2009. Conclusions: Infant mortality represents an undeniable indicator of avoidable and unnecessary deaths that can be prevented by health actions and social policies designed to influence social and economic determinants. In this regard, it becomes essential to move towards the reduction considered among the commitments established by the United Nations within the framework of the Millennium Development Goals.