"Why do children die? The Right Thing 101"

"Why do children die? The Right Thing 101"

It is truly heartwarming to know that the world has made tremendous progress in reducing child mortality rates over the past few decades. The number of children who die each year has decreased by more than half since 1990. This is a significant achievement that deserves recognition and celebration.

Child mortality is defined as the death of anyone under the age of 5, with this age range being the riskiest time for children's health and well-being. In 1950, a staggering 20 million children lost their lives. However, by 1990, this number had decreased to 12 million, despite an increase in the global birth rate. The progress continued, and by 2000, the number of child deaths dropped to fewer than 10 million. Finally, in 2019, the number fell below 5 million. It is important to note that the majority of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.

The causes of child mortality vary, with non-communicable conditions accounting for 18 percent of deaths, including cancer and cardiovascular problems. The remaining 82 percent of deaths are caused by communicable diseases like diarrhea and malaria, as well as health issues exacerbated by risk factors such as malnutrition. The most vulnerable group within this age range is newborns in their first 30 days of life. Severe infections and asphyxia, which is a lack of oxygen to the baby's brain and vital organs, are the leading causes of neonatal deaths. Premature babies are particularly susceptible to these dangers.

Fortunately, some of the most effective solutions to reduce child mortality are surprisingly low-tech. For example, simply placing a newborn against the mother's chest immediately after birth can have a significant impact. This skin-to-skin contact promotes bonding, regulates the baby's body temperature, and reduces the risk of infections. Another remarkable success story is the decline in deaths caused by pneumonia, the top killer of children beyond the neonatal stage. From 2000 to 2019, the number of pneumonia-related deaths decreased from over 1.5 million to around 670,000. This progress is largely attributed to low-tech interventions like oral rehydration solution, which helps replace lost electrolytes.

Immunization also plays a pivotal role in reducing child mortality rates. Measles, for instance, used to claim the lives of countless children. However, between 2010 and 2020, a measles vaccine prevented over 200,000 deaths. By 2030, it is estimated that this vaccine will have saved over half a million lives. Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, has been instrumental in providing measles vaccines to more than 500 million children through routine immunization and targeted vaccination campaigns. This achievement highlights the power of collaboration and the importance of accessible healthcare for all.

Now, let's shift our focus to "The Right Thing 101" and explore the principles introduced by John Maxwell. These principles provide valuable insights into how we can create a more compassionate and ethical society.

The first principle is that we all want to be valued. As human beings, we desire to be recognized and appreciated for who we are, not just for what we can do. Valuing others, irrespective of their abilities or achievements, is the foundation of ethics.

The second principle emphasizes the importance of appreciation. By expressing gratitude and giving credit to others, we create an environment of positivity and encouragement. A simple act of thanking someone can go a long way in making them feel valued and appreciated.

Trust is the third principle discussed by Maxwell. Trust is earned by extending trust to others. Henry L. Stinson once said, "The only way you can make a man trustworthy is by trusting him, and the surest way to make him untrustworthy is to distrust him and show your distrust." Trusting others not only empowers them but also fosters a culture of openness and collaboration.

Respect is the fourth principle highlighted. A leader's respect for their team members creates an environment where individuals feel free to perform at their best and strive for excellence. Respect is a fundamental aspect of healthy relationships and should be practiced by everyone, regardless of their position or role.

The fifth principle focuses on understanding others. To truly understand someone, we must make the effort to connect with them on their terms. This requires us to extend ourselves and meet them where they are, putting the burden of connection on ourselves rather than expecting them to conform to our perspective.

Lastly, the sixth principle highlights the importance of not taking advantage of others. If our actions can be interpreted as taking advantage of someone, it is a clear sign that our behavior is unethical and harmful. We should strive to act in ways that promote the well-being and dignity of others, rather than exploiting their vulnerabilities.

In conclusion, the progress made in reducing child mortality rates is a testament to the power of collective efforts and innovative solutions. From low-tech interventions to accessible vaccines, countless lives have been saved, and millions of children have been given the chance to thrive. Additionally, embracing the principles of valuing, appreciating, trusting, respecting, understanding, and not taking advantage of others can contribute to a more ethical and compassionate society. Let us remember these principles and strive to incorporate them into our daily lives.

Actionable advice:

1. Express gratitude and appreciation to those around you. Take the time to thank people for their contributions and acknowledge their efforts.
2. Trust others and extend trust to them. By believing in their abilities and showing your confidence, you create an environment of trust and collaboration.
3. Strive to understand others by actively listening and empathizing with their perspectives. Seek to connect with them on their terms and make the effort to bridge any gaps in understanding.

Remember, small actions can have a profound impact on the lives of others, so let us choose to do the right thing and create a better world for everyone.