A new report from the National Paediatric Mortality Register (NPMR) reveals concerning trends in Ireland’s child mortality rates, with infant mortality rates plateauing and now exceeding the European Union average. The comprehensive study, analyzing data from 2019 to 2023, shows that Ireland’s rate of 3.2 deaths per 1,000 live births is now higher than the EU average of 3.4.
Between 2022 and 2023, Ireland recorded 612 deaths among those aged 18 and under, with 363 of these being infants under one year old. Of particular concern, 272 of these infant deaths occurred in newborns under 28 days old. Professor Michael Barrett, chair of the NPMR Governance Committee, noted that most neonatal deaths were due to perinatal conditions and chromosomal abnormalities.
The report highlighted several troubling trends:
- A rise in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) cases, increasing from 0.24 to 0.35 per 1,000 live births
- Trauma accounting for 20% of deaths in children aged 1-14 and half of all deaths in the 15-18 age group
- Suspected self-harm emerging as the leading cause of trauma deaths among 15-18 year olds, representing 54% of trauma deaths and 28% of all deaths in this age group
- Cancer remaining a significant cause of death, accounting for 25% of deaths in children aged 1-14
While some positive trends emerged, such as a decline in road traffic collision deaths, the report’s authors emphasize the need for improved data collection and prevention strategies. They recommend implementing a centralized electronic data collection system and enhancing suicide prevention efforts through collaboration with the HSE’s National Office of Suicide Prevention.
According to The Journal, the findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions and policy changes to address preventable deaths among Ireland’s young population.