THE childhood mortality rate has declined in Davao Region based on the 2017 National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).

A copy of the survey results obtained Friday, October 19, showed that under-5 mortality decreased to 24 from 37 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2013.

Infant mortality also decreased to 17 from 26 deaths per 1,000 live births, said PSA statistical specialist Adeline G. Batucan.

Meanwhile, neonatal mortality slightly increased to 13 from 12 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2013 NDHS record.

Batucan said that childhood mortality estimates are computed based on Neonatal, Infant, and Child and under-5 mortality.

"The information on infant and mortality is relevant to the demographic assessment of the country's population," Batucan said

She added that the survey is important indicator of the country's socio-economic development and quality of life and it can help identify the children who may be at high risk. It also helps the government create strategies to reduce the risk such as promoting birth spacing.