Nearly 5 million children still dying before age five, UN report finds

A UN inter-agency report estimates nearly 5 million children died before their fifth birthday in 2024 and finds the pace of reduction in under-five mortality has slowed markedly since 2015.

A UN inter-agency report released in 2026 estimates that nearly 5 million children died before their fifth birthday in 2024. The analysis combines global estimates of causes of death to show not only how many children are dying and where, but also why. It notes that reductions in under-five mortality have slowed by more than 60 percent since 2015. The report highlights that many of these deaths are linked to preventable causes and limited access to quality health care. Key findings: - Nearly 5 million under-five deaths were reported in 2024. - Newborn deaths now account for nearly half of all under-five mortality, with complications of preterm birth and problems during labor and delivery among the main causes. - The report provides the first global estimate of deaths directly attributed to severe acute malnutrition at more than 100,000, while noting the true toll may be higher. - Nine leading infectious diseases are responsible for about 43 percent of under-five deaths, and deaths remain concentrated in a small number of high-burden countries, particularly in sub‑Saharan Africa and parts of Southern Asia. Summary: The findings point to slowed progress toward child survival goals and persistent geographic disparities. UN officials said declining development financing and gaps in primary health services are straining maternal, newborn and child health programmes. Undetermined at this time.