Determinants associated with infant mortality in Ethiopia: Using the recent 2019 Ethiopia mini demographic and health survey

Abstract BackgroundInfant mortality is the number of deaths under the age of one year and it is one of the most essential and sensitive indicators of the health status of the country. This study aims to identify the determinants that affect infant deaths in Ethiopia using the 2019 EMDHS. MethodsThis study used the 2019 Ethiopia mini demographic and health survey and 1,397 infants born from mothers who had been interviewed about births in the five years before the survey. The data were first analyzed with a chi-square test of association, and then potential factors were evaluated with binary logistic regression models. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) along with a 95 % confidence interval (CI) of parameters was used to interpret the result ResultsThe prevalence of infant death was 21%. The study also showed that age at first birth (16-32) infant (AOR = 0.541, 95%CI: 0.353, 0.827), mothers who had breastfed (AOR = 0.022, 95% CI: 0.014,), preceding birth interval less than 24 months (AOR = 0.183, 95% CI 0.117, 0.287), mothers who born their child in the health sector (AOR = AOR = 0.442, 95% CI: 0.304, 0.802) statistically related with a lower risk of infant mortality. Although mothers age group 35-49 (AOR = 2.682 1.446 4.974), mothers who had no ANC visits (AOR = 5.029, 95% CI: 2.923, 8.64), multiple births (AOR = 6.094, 95% CI: 2.684, 13.837, P=0.000) were statistically associated with a higher risk of infant mortality. ConclusionsIt is greatly suggested that maternal and child health care services (ANC visits) are strengthened. Preceding birth interval of fewer than 24 months, multiple births, and please of delivery at home needs special attention. We recommend also health institutions play a great roll to give awareness to mothers about family planning to reduce infant mortality.