What is the neonatal mortality rate per 1,000 births?

The neonatal mortality rate refers to the number of deaths of infants within the first 28 days of life per 1,000 live births. A rate of 3.9 indicates that out of every 1,000 live births, approximately 3.9 infants die within the first month. This measure is crucial for evaluating the health of newborns and the effectiveness of healthcare systems in caring for infants. A lower neonatal mortality rate generally reflects better maternal and infant health services, improved prenatal care, and better access to healthcare.

Understanding this figure is essential for health professionals as it helps guide public health initiatives and inform policies aimed at reducing infant mortality. Recognizing trends in neonatal mortality rates can also help identify areas where interventions are needed and evaluate the impact of health programs over time.