Child Survival in Poorest Regions Achieves 1950s European Standards, Data Shows

Recent global health data indicates a significant milestone in child survival, with children in the world's most impoverished regions now experiencing survival rates comparable to those seen in Europe 70 years ago. This remarkable progress reflects decades of concerted global efforts in public health. Social media commentator andrewgerard highlighted this achievement, stating, "It’s a truly incredible achievement that in the poorest parts of the world, kids have the same chance of survival (and increasingly, living a long healthy life) that they had in Europe 70 years ago."

Global statistics underscore this transformative shift in child health. The total number of under-five deaths worldwide dramatically declined from 12.8 million in 1990 to 4.8 million in 2023, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This represents a 59% reduction in the global under-five mortality rate, from 93 deaths per 1,000 live births in 1990 to 37 per 1,000 in 2023.

For context, in 1950, the global under-five mortality rate stood at approximately 22.5%, while in many of Europe's richest countries, it had fallen to less than 5% (or 1 in 20 children). While the global average of 37 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2023 surpasses Europe's 1950 figures, significant disparities persist. Sub-Saharan Africa, for instance, still recorded an under-five mortality rate of 68 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2023, which is comparable to the overall global rate of 1 in 15 achieved by 2004.

This progress has been driven by advancements in healthcare interventions, improved sanitation, better nutrition, and widespread vaccination programs. The introduction of vaccines, such as the measles vaccine licensed in 1963, played a crucial role in preventing millions of childhood deaths. However, the pace of reduction in under-five mortality has slowed since 2015, and infectious diseases, pre-term birth complications, and birth asphyxia remain leading causes of death, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected settings.

Despite these ongoing challenges and regional disparities, the overall trajectory points to a profound improvement in child survival across the globe. The ability of the world's poorest regions to achieve survival rates once characteristic of more developed nations signifies a powerful testament to global health initiatives and sustained investment, though continued efforts are vital to ensure every child has an equal chance at a healthy life.