Exploring the Influence of Education and Literacy on Child Mortality in Karachi
Child mortality is a pressing issue in many parts of the world, including Karachi, Pakistan. While numerous factors contribute to the untimely deaths of children under the age of five, one crucial aspect that often goes unnoticed is the influence of education and literacy. In this blog, we will delve into the relationship between education, literacy, and child mortality in Karachi, shedding light on the significant role these factors play in shaping the health outcomes of young children. In Pakistan, there are still many challenges to ensuring that all children, particularly the most disadvantaged, attend, stay and learn in school. An estimated 22.8 million children aged 5–16 are out-of-school, representing 44 percent of the total population in this age group .
Disparities based on gender, socio-economic status, and geography are significant. In Sindh, 52 percent of the poorest children (58 percent girls) are out of school . These disparities can have a direct impact on child mortality rates. A global study found that there was a reduction in under-5 mortality of 31.0% for children born to mothers with 12 years of education (i.e., completed secondary education) compared with those born to a parent with no education.
Education: A Key Determinant of Child Mortality
Education has long been recognized as a fundamental driver of social and economic development. Its impact on child mortality is multifaceted, as it affects various aspects of a child’s well-being, including healthcare access, knowledge of preventive practices, and socio-economic status.
1. Healthcare Access: Education equips individuals with the necessary skills to seek appropriate healthcare for their children. Educated parents are more likely to understand the importance of immunizations, regular check-ups, and seeking medical attention promptly, thereby reducing the risk of preventable illnesses and complications.
2. Knowledge of Preventive Practices: Education provides individuals with the knowledge and awareness of basic health practices such as hygiene, sanitation, and nutrition. This knowledge empowers parents to make informed decisions regarding their child’s well-being, leading to a reduced likelihood of infectious diseases and malnutrition.
3. Socio-economic Status: Education plays a pivotal role in uplifting socio-economic status. Higher levels of education often translate to better job prospects and higher incomes, enabling families to afford essential healthcare services and nutritious food for their children. Improved socio-economic status, in turn, reduces the likelihood of child mortality.
The Impact of Literacy on Child Mortality
In addition to education, literacy levels among parents and caregivers also play a crucial role in child mortality rates. Literacy enhances the ability to comprehend healthcare information, follow medical instructions, and engage in effective communication with healthcare providers. Here’s how literacy influences child mortality:
1. Health Literacy: Literacy empowers individuals to understand health-related information, such as warning signs of illness, dosage instructions for medication, and the importance of early intervention. This understanding enables parents to take prompt action, seek appropriate medical help, and make informed decisions regarding their child’s health.
2. Communication with Healthcare Providers: Literacy enhances the ability to effectively communicate with healthcare providers, ensuring that parents can articulate their concerns, ask relevant questions, and comprehend medical advice. Improved communication facilitates accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, minimizing the risk of complications and mortality.
3. Empowering Parents: Literacy empowers parents to advocate for their child’s health rights, demand quality healthcare services, and actively participate in community health initiatives. This active engagement contributes to a supportive environment that prioritizes child health and reduces child mortality rates.
Success Stories
UNICEF is working in Pakistan to address these challenges and ensure that every child gets the opportunity to experience a healthy life. They support the government through their technical expertise and multi-sectoral work in Pakistan. Through their work, they help the most disadvantaged mothers, newborns and children to benefit from integrated health interventions and adoption of better healthcare practices/behaviors to help the children survive and thrive.
Conclusion:
Education and literacy are vital determinants of child mortality in Karachi. By equipping individuals with knowledge, skills, and socio-economic empowerment, education and literacy serve as powerful tools for reducing child mortality rates. Improving access to quality education, promoting literacy programs, and raising awareness about the importance of education in child health are crucial steps towards creating a healthier and more equitable future for the children of Karachi. Together, we can ensure that every child has a chance to thrive and grow, free from the burden of preventable deaths.
References:
[UNICEF Pakistan — Health](https://www.unicef.org/pakistan/health)
[UNICEF Pakistan — Education](https://www.unicef.org/pakistan/education)
[Parental education and inequalities in child mortality: a global systematic review and meta-analysis — The Lancet](https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2821%2900534-1/fulltext)
This blog has been written by Dr. Muhammad Bilal Siddiqui, who is a Health System Strengthening Strategists and a Child Health Epidemiologist.
His LinkedIn profile is https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbsl
Email: drbilals@gmail.com