Child mortality rate declines significantly in Finland, study finds

In Finland, the child mortality rate has significantly declined since the early 2000s, despite historically low levels. This finding comes from a study conducted by the University of Oulu, which analyzed mortality rates among individuals under 16 years old from 2005 to 2020. The research was published in Acta Paediatrica.

Despite a long-term decrease in child mortality in Finland since the 20th century, researchers noted that improvements continue. “Child and youth mortality can be seen as an important measure of the quality and effectiveness of healthcare, and it is encouraging to see that positive developments are still occurring,” stated Riikka Sallinen, the principal investigator, in a university press release.

Various factors contribute to this trend, including advancements in medical care, research, and health policy decisions aimed at further reducing child mortality. The study highlights practical improvements such as an expanded vaccination program for children and the introduction of group B streptococcus screening for pregnant women in 2012. Increased awareness and education around safe sleeping practices for infants, the dangers of smoking, and a decrease in traffic accidents involving children are also seen as positive influences.

Additionally, the study indicates that an increase in abortions due to fetal abnormalities has affected neonatal mortality rates. During the study period, a total of 3,685 children died, with the majority being under one year old. The most common causes of death for infants included prematurity, congenital anomalies, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). For older children, fatalities were often linked to external factors such as accidents and cancer. The research utilized data from the Digital and Population Data Services Agency and Statistics Finland’s mortality statistics.