Bridging the Gap: Policy Solutions to Reduce Neonatal Mortality in India

Presenter

Tarunima Agarwal

Group Members

Gabriele Martinelli, Sara Hershberg

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

Daniel F. López-Cevallos, Department of Health Promotion and Policy, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 3, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A12, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 1 (A1-A20) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

While India has seen improved child survival in the past decade, substantial health disparities persist between Indian states and in rural communities and marginalized areas. These disparities are evident both in the magnitude and rate of decline in neonatal mortality. Although the Indian government has signalled that its policy priorities are aligned with those of international organizations (e.g., WHO, UNICEF), achieving these commitments (e.g., Sustainable Development Goals -SDGs) by 2030 is uncertain. 

The main causes of neonatal death in India include prematurity, complications during delivery, and infections which are compounded by socioeconomic disadvantages like poverty, lack of education, and poor access to quality healthcare. Between 2000 to 2017, the NMR has decreased overall but there are differing mortality rates between states and districts.

We conducted a scoping review of the literature to identify relevant policy solutions to reduce neonatal mortality in India. Preliminary results show that policy changes should: 1) prioritize equitable healthcare access (e.g., more accessible facilities which promote skilled birth attendance); 2) empower mothers and promote early childhood nutrition (e.g., promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life (WHO/UNICEF)); and 3) address social and economic inequalities (e.g., stop the status of caste from determining health outcomes). 

Moreover, interventions should focus on improving access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural and marginalized areas. Additionally, promoting breastfeeding and addressing malnutrition are helpful strategies for reducing neonatal deaths. By investing in these initiatives, India can make significant progress towards achieving its SDGs.

Keywords

Neonatal mortality, Health disparities, Global burden, SDGs, Equitable policy solutions

Research Area

Globalization and Development

SIMILAR ABSTRACTS (BY KEYWORD)