How many children died before their fifth birthday in 2024 according to the UN report?

An estimated 4.9 million children died before their fifth birthday in 2024.

Has the pace of reducing child mortality slowed down?

Yes, the pace of reduction in child mortality has slowed by more than 60% since 2015.

What progress has India made in reducing child mortality?

India has demonstrated steady progress, with its Neonatal Mortality Rate falling to 17 in 2024 and the Under 5 Mortality Rate dropping to 27.

Home / Health / UN Report: Child Mortality Slowdown Alarming

UN Report: Child Mortality Slowdown Alarming

18 Mar

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Summary

Nearly 5 million children died before age five in 2024.
Progress in reducing child deaths has significantly slowed since 2015.
India demonstrates steady progress in reducing child mortality rates.

UN Report: Child Mortality Slowdown Alarming

An estimated 4.9 million children globally died before reaching their fifth birthday in 2024, with newborns accounting for 2.3 million of these deaths, as per a UN report. Most of these tragic losses were preventable through accessible, low-cost interventions and quality healthcare.

While global under-five deaths have fallen by over half since 2000, the rate of reduction has slowed by more than 60% since 2015. This slowdown is placing critical maternal, newborn, and child health programs under increasing pressure, despite evidence showing investments in child health yield high returns.