10 facts on child health

WHO/Yassir Abo Gadr

29 October 2007

Nearly 10 million children under the age of five die every year - more than 1000 every hour. Almost all of these children could survive and thrive with access to simple, affordable interventions.

The loss of a child is a tragedy - families suffer and human potential is wasted. WHO is improving child health by helping countries to deliver integrated, effective care in a continuum, starting with a healthy pregnancy for the mother, through birth and care up to five years of age. Investing in health systems is key to delivering this essential care.

Read more about child health

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