Evaluation of Infant Mortality Causes at Basankusu General Referral Hospital, Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Retrospective Study (2019–2020)
Abstract
Introduction
Infant mortality remains a critical public health indicator reflecting the effectiveness of health systems and socioeconomic development. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly in rural areas such as Basankusu, infant mortality rates remain alarmingly high. This study aimed to evaluate the causes of infant mortality among children under five years of age at Basankusu General Referral Hospital from 2019 to 2020.
Methods
A retrospective, descriptive, and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using exhaustive sampling of all infant death records (children aged 0–59 months) registered at Basankusu General Referral Hospital between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020. A total of 100 cases were included. Data were collected using a standardized data extraction form from hospital registers and medical records. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages) were computed. Chi-square tests were used to examine associations between sociodemographic factors and mortality.
Results
The majority of deaths occurred in infants aged 0–11 months (52%), with male predominance (58%). Rural residence accounted for 62% of deaths. The leading causes of death were cholera (30%), severe malaria (22%), acute diarrhea (18%), malnutrition (15%), and measles (8%). Most deaths occurred during the rainy season (68%). Incomplete vaccination status was observed in 51% of cases, and 74% of children had moderate or severe malnutrition. Late hospital arrival (>72 hours) was noted in 40% of cases. Significant associations were found between mortality and maternal education level (p < 0.05), household income (p < 0.01), access to clean water (p < 0.001), and vaccination status (p < 0.01).
Conclusion
Infant mortality at Basankusu General Referral Hospital is predominantly caused by preventable conditions: cholera, malaria, diarrhea, malnutrition, and measles. Contributing factors include low maternal education, poverty, rural residence, lack of clean water, incomplete vaccination, and delayed healthcare seeking. Strengthening primary prevention, improving vaccine coverage, promoting early consultation, and enhancing health infrastructure are urgently needed.
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How to cite
Ngondoa Ngondoa, A. (2026). Evaluation of Infant Mortality Causes at Basankusu General Referral Hospital, Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Retrospective Study (2019–2020). SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0028-evaluation-of-infant-mortality-causes-at-basankusu-general-referral-ho