Earlier this month, Melinda Gates shared what she feels is the most important statistic released each year. If you’re familiar with the Gates’ foundation, you’ll know that children’s health is one of their passions and it’s no surprise the UNICEF’s Child Survival Report is one that is monitored closely by them.
The good news? The rate of death among children under the age of 5 is steadily declining. Each year, we’re losing less and less of our children before their 5th birthday.
The reality check? There’s still work for us to do to save our children and create healthy and thriving environments for them.
Thanks to immunizations, breastfeeding, family planning, maternal health, fortified foods, and greater access to health care we can celebrate the decrease in the number of children dying at an early age. The detailed report shows what the leading causes of death are and gives us insight on the areas that we need to continue focusing on to continue this downward trend.
What @MelindaGates says is the most important statistic in the world. http://t.co/8J3NfiWPXm #SocialGoodMoms
— Michelle (@Divatude) September 30, 2013
You can learn more about what you can do to improve child survival rates on UNICEF’s interactive progress report.
I’m a proud member of the Global Team of 200, a highly specialized group of Mom Bloggers for Social Goodfollow members who focus on maternal health, children, hunger, and women and girls.
Divas With A Purpose says
You're welcome Heather! Glad it was informative for you!
Tiffany says
I’m wih Heather…I never evenknew this existed!
Heather A Stafford says
Wow! I never even realized there was such a report. Thanks for my lesson of the day!
Miranda says
Wow 300,000 fewer children died versus last year! That is amazing and very exciting!
Michelle says
Very much so!!! It’s awesome that it continues to trend downward every year.
LuAnn Braley says
Thank you for blogging about our children’s health. Due to my health, my daughter was born two months early and weighed 3 lb .4 oz at birth. Luckily we were in Fort Worth, with access to advanced neo-natal care. Otherwise, I might not have a happy, healthy 10 year old running around the house today. I have been blessed … beyond my ability to comprehend, really.
Went to the “A Promise Renewed” site, signed up and shared on FB and Twitter.
Michelle says
LuAnn ~ Thanks so much for your support and sharing your story!