Identification of the Cause of Infant Mortality in Balangan Regency South Kalimantan Province in 2023

Abstract

The infant mortality rate is an indicator that reflects the healthcare system and societal well-being. Based on data from BPS of South Kalimantan Province, the infant mortality rate for children under 1 year old in 2020 was 17.22 per 1000 live births, while in Balangan Regency, it was 18.24 per 1000 live births. This research aims to identify the causes of infant mortality in Balangan Regency in 2023. This research is a descriptive study using a total sampling of 30 cases of infant mortality in Balangan Regency in 2023. The research was conducted from May to July 2024, variables include the infant's age, place and cause of death, maternal comorbid conditions, antenatal care, birth attendants, type of delivery, delay in seeking care, and refusal of care. Data was collected using primary (questionnaires) and secondary (perinatal verbal autopsy). Data analysis was performed using univariate analysis, which was presented in the form of frequency distribution tables. The results of data analysis show the classification of infant mortality includes neonatal death (0-28 days) with 19 cases (63%) and post-neonatal death with 11 cases (37 %). Most infant deaths occurred at Datu Kandang Haji Hospital with 14 cases (47%). The majority of infant deaths were caused by ELBW and prematurity with 7 cases (23%), 6 cases (20%) by diarrhea, and 5 cases (17%) by asphyxia. A total of 22 mothers (73%) had comorbid conditions, 5 mothers (17%) had less than 4 antenatal care, 24 cases (80%) had a midwife as the birth attendant, 7 cases (23%) experienced delays in seeking treatment, and 3 cases (10%) refused treatment. The causes of infant mortality in Balangan Regency in 2023 are classified into infant and maternal conditions. Infant conditions were predominantly caused by ELBW with prematurity, diarrhea, and asphyxia, while maternal conditions involved comorbid diseases.