A Retrospective Analysis of Pediatric Mortality Trends Over Two Years at a National Referral Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia

Introduction

Child mortality is a critical global health indicator, reflecting a nation’s development and healthcare quality. Despite significant progress in reducing child mortality globally, Somalia continues to experience high rates, particularly among infants and young children, due to preventable and treatable conditions. Malnutrition, birth complications, and infectious diseases are the leading causes of death. This study aims to analyze the demographic and mortality patterns of hospitalized children at Banadir Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia, to identify key factors contributing to pediatric mortality and propose actionable solutions.

Objective

To assess and analyze the trends in pediatric mortality over the past two years at a national referral hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia.

Design

A retrospective cross-sectional study

Setting

Pediatric department at Banadir hospital in Mogadishu Somalia

Participants

1,443 children admitted to the pediatric department

Results

The overall pediatric mortality rate during the study period was 5.3%. Male children accounted for 56.5% of deaths, while females represented 43.5%. Infants under one year were disproportionately affected, contributing to the majority of deaths. The primary causes of death were birth asphyxia (10.33%), severe acute malnutrition (29.04%), and preterm (13.65%). The majority of deaths occurred between two to five days and within the first 24 hours after admission, respectively.

Mortality was significantly associated with younger age groups, particularly neonates.

Conclusions

In order to reduce Somalia’s high rate of pediatric mortality, the results highlight the urgent need for better healthcare services and focused interventions. Enhancing maternal and neonatal healthcare, strengthening pediatric emergency care, and addressing malnutrition through community-based programs are critical. Increasing vaccination coverage and improving timely referral systems are also essential to prevent deaths from avoidable conditions. These strategies, if implemented effectively, can contribute to a substantial decline in preventable child deaths in Somalia.