An assessment of the major factors influencing infant mortality in Southern Nigeria

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess and analyze the major factors influencing infant mortality in Southern Nigeria. Twenty nine statement likert type inventory was constructed by the researcher (Appendix A) and sent to contacts in Nigeria. Forty-three inventories were adequately completed by respondents. Data was analyzed by calculating: (a) the general distribution of respondents and the percentage calculation of same (Table 1); (b) distribution of respondents as basically "agreed" or "disagreed" with each of the statements and the respective percentage calculation of same (Table 2); and (c) a table to emphasize the strength with which respondents agreed or disagreed with any particular statement; the higher the numerical score for a statement, the more strongly the statement was accepted by the respondents (Table 3). Results indicated that most respondents agreed that (a) lack of adequate education, (b) some cultural complexities and (c) the refusal of Nigerian students abroad to return home were some of the major factors that had influenced infant mortality in the Southern part of Nigeria. Poverty was not accepted as a major factor by most respondents.