Leading Causes of Child Morbidity and Mortality Worldwide

Top causes of illness (morbidity) in children <5:

  • Acute respiratory infections (pneumonia, bronchitis, flu)
  • Diarrheal diseases (cholera, rotavirus)
  • Malaria
  • Measles
  • Neonatal conditions (preterm birth, low birth weight)
  • Nutritional deficiencies (vitamin A, iron)
  • Unintentional injuries (falls, drowning, burns)

Top causes of death (mortality) in children <5:

  • Pneumonia
  • Diarrheal diseases
  • Malaria
  • Measles
  • Neonatal conditions
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Unintentional injuries

These disproportionately affect low-income countries. Vaccination, nutrition, sanitation, and injury prevention are key interventions.

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