The Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) is composed of neonatal and post-neonatal mortality. Which of the following statements correctly describes the epidemiological characteristic of EARLY neonatal mortality (ENM)?

• A Deaths in the first 7 days of life; predominantly caused by infections and diarrhoea
• B Deaths in the first 28 days of life; predominantly caused by congenital anomalies
• C Deaths in the first 7 days of life; predominantly caused by birth asphyxia, prematurity, and birth trauma ✓
• D Deaths in days 7–28; caused by jaundice and infections

Explanation

Early neonatal mortality (ENM) is defined as deaths occurring in the first 7 days of life (days 0–6). The leading causes are birth asphyxia (perinatal asphyxia), complications of prematurity/low birth weight, and birth injuries. ENM reflects the quality of obstetric and perinatal care. Late neonatal mortality (days 7–27) is more associated with infections (sepsis, tetanus, pneumonia). Post-neonatal mortality (days 28 to 364) is dominated by infections and nutritional causes, reflecting community-level and socioeconomic factors.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.