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Abstract

This study is concerned with an analysis of bio-demographic determinants of child survival in Saudi Arabia. The study is based on data derived from the National Child Health Survey, which was conducted in Saudi Arabia in 1987.

The study attempts to assess the recent trends in childhood mortality in Saudi Arabia; to assess the role played by structural factors versus social resources in shaping childhood mortality; to evaluate the relative importance of different social resources in different contextual settings in relation to child survival, and to understand the mechanisms of intervention of structural and social factors with special reference to maternal education.

The study follows the framework suggested by Mosley and Chen for the analysis of determinants of child survival. The data has been analysed at two levels: aggregate and individual. The individual level analysis is based on an application of multivariate analysis technique using the method developed by Trussell and Preston.

Between early 1970’s and mid 1980’s the infant mortality rate (IMR) and under five mortality rate (CMR) have declined sharply from 105 to 52 and from 155 to 63 respectively. The rates varied between regions, urban and rural areas and between illiterate and literate groups.

The most important differentials associated with the Saudi IMR and CMR were found to be: (a) social resources (mother’s and father’s education, father's occupation), (b) household infrastructure [piped/bottled water, flush-toilet], and (c) regional characteristics (urban/rural, geographical region of residence).

The observed household infrastructure and area characteristic differentials worked mainly through educational and socio-economic mechanisms.

Extension of female education, better job opportunity, piped water supply, flush toilets and further improving access to health services in deficient areas can reduce IMR and CMR further. Intensification of health education and further research in areas with inadequate knowledge are needed.

Publication Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HA Statistics H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform
Departments:	Bayes Business School > Actuarial Science & Insurance > Statistical Research Reports Doctoral Theses Bayes Business School > Bayes Business School Doctoral Theses

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