Understanding cause-specific under-five mortality in Nairobi slums: evidence from competing risk models

Patricia Elungata, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC)
Donatien Beguy, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC)
Marilyn Wamukoya, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC)
Clement Oduor, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC)

In this paper, we not only contribute to the literature of cause-specific under-5 mortality but also provide evidence that may be useful in the identification of interventions suitable to the most dominant cause of death among children living in Nairobi slums. Using data from the NUHDSS covering the period 2003-2014, we used competing risk models to determine factors associated with cause-specific mortality whilst controlling for known socio-economic and bio-demographic differentials. Residing in Viwandani is significantly associated with lower risk of dying of HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis or diarrhea. Children born to Luo mothers have a significantly higher risk of dying from all causes compared to those of Kikuyu ethnicity and a much higher risk of dying of diarrhea or HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis. Analysis of cause-specific mortality among children is key in seeking ways to address mortality differentials in urban slums, thereby helping achieve MDG5.