Closing the gaps in child health in the Pacific: An achievable goal in the next 20 years

Abstract

It is not inconceivable that by 2035 the substantial gaps in child health across the Pacific can close significantly. Currently, Australia and New Zealand have child mortality rates of 5 and 6 per 1000 live births, respectively, while Pacific island developing nations have under 5 mortality rates ranging from 13 to 16 (Vanuatu, Fiji and Tonga) to 47 and 58 per 1000 live births (Kiribati and Papua New Guinea, respectively). However, these Pacific child mortality rates are falling, by an average of 1.4% per year since 1990, and more rapidly (1.9% per year) since 2000. Based on progress elsewhere, there is a need to (i) define the specific things needed to close the gaps in child health; (ii) be far more ambitious and hopeful than ever before; and (iii) form a new regional compact based on solidarity and interdependence.

Determinants of early initiation of breastfeeding in Papua New Guinea: a population-based study using the 2016-2018 demographic and health survey data

“…It has, therefore, become important for health systems globally to understand some key factors that affect EIB. In the present study, we investigated the determinants of EIB in Papua New Guinea, given the high child mortality rate in the country [ 35 ], with the overall aim of producing findings that can serve as basis for policy interventions aimed at preventing child deaths in the country. This section discusses key findings of the study.…”

Accelerating Maternal and Child Health Gains in Papua New Guinea: Modelled Predictions from Closing the Equity Gap Using LiST

“…In particular, strengthening of rural health services is occurring through a coordinated health workforce across districts, rural clinics and VHVs, improvements and clarity in VHV training and role, reinforced clinical services at rural clinics, and boosts to community-based and clinical health services. As echoed by recent studies, such developments in the country combined with a focus on reducing inequity have the potential to accelerate progress to RMNCH goals [51,52].…”

“…Currently the training and role of VHVs varies widely and most are attached to faith-based organisations and non-government organisations. Such factors as well as limited integration with clinic services, minimal support and incentive systems might explain the limited success of community-level interventions in the country [51]. However, the government of PNG is now revitalising community-level services and is undertaking steps to create a more structured and effective VHV cadre [56].…”

Developing a child health survey for a Pacific Island nation. Integrating the Delphi method with Pacific methodologies

“…The limited data that are available report mortality rather than morbidity statistics in children under-five years old, largely due to the Millennium Development and Sustainable Development Goals. 1,2 While there are a large array of tools available to measure child health there is no agreement on their applicability for child populations in countries which differ from those where the tools were created and validated. 3 Because of the appropriate focus to date on reduction in early childhood mortality, there has been little development of tools that can be used to describe this wider range of child health issues from a Pacific perspective.…”