Sociodemographic correlates of infant mortality in India: A review of national family health survey data

Abstract

Introduction: Infant mortality rate (IMR) is interplay of several sociodemographic factors. There are several scopes for policymakers to bring IMR down by improving those factors. An ecological analysis was performed, with the aim to identify such factors. Methods: Data were taken from nationally-representative National Family Health Survey 4 (2015–2016). Correlation was used for the analysis. States were compared individually and in groups. Results: Female literacy (r = −0.639), improved sanitation (r = −0.604), and clean fuel (r = −0.463) were significantly related to IMR. States belonging to the Empowered Action Group performed poorly in terms of infant death and basic amenities provided to the citizens. Conclusion: Efforts should be made to improve household environments to reduce infant deaths in future.

Keywords

• india
• infant mortality
• national family health survey