Considering the high coefficients of neonatal mortality from preventable causes registered in Brazilian health services, this study aimed to analyze the mortality profile in the last 5 years of children under 1 year old living in the city of Criciúma/SC using a database from the epidemiological surveillance of Santa Catarina. This is a descriptive, retrospective epidemiological study based on data from the Information System on Live Births and the Information System on Mortality. . We highlight the need to make an in-depth examination of the theme of preventability within the context of causes of death and, through birth certificates, to build a more specific classification of causes of death and thus develop mechanisms to improve health care within the municipality, not only focused on immediate care, but also on prevention.