Decomposing Socio-Economic Inequalities in Infant Mortality in Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Despite overall improvements in living standards and population health, child health inequality persists in Pakistan, particularly reflected in one of the highest Infant Mortality Rates (IMR) in the South Asian region. This study aims to discern the distinct contributions of various factors to socioeconomic inequality in infant mortality within the Punjab province, utilizing data from the latest Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS Punjab 2017-2018). The primary objective is to identify key factors significantly contributing to the observed inequality in infant mortality within the region.

Methods: Employing MICS Punjab 2017-18 data, we utilized the concentration index to measure socioeconomic inequality in infant mortality. Subsequently, the concentration index was decomposed to reveal the determinants of this inequality.

Results: Within the Punjab province, household economic status emerged as the predominant contributor to infant mortality inequality (42.35%), followed by maternal education (35.52%), rural residence (11.45%), and mother’s age (10.44%).

Conclusion: The study findings underscore that socioeconomic inequality in infant mortality in Punjab is influenced not only by the functions of the healthcare system but also by factors extending beyond the purview of health authorities and healthcare delivery systems.