Rapid population growth can result in large increases in the infant mortality rate if there is
insufficient infrastructure and limited access to essential healthcare services.
When the population grows rapidly, there may not be enough healthcare facilities, doctors, nurses, or other healthcare professionals to adequately provide care to all individuals, especially infants. Limited access to healthcare services can lead to delays in receiving necessary medical treatment and preventive care, increasing the risk of infant mortality.
Additionally, rapid population growth can strain the existing healthcare infrastructure, leading to overcrowded hospitals and clinics. This can result in poor quality of care, longer waiting times, and a lack of resources, all of which can negatively impact the survival rate of infants.
Furthermore, rapid population growth can also contribute to increased poverty levels, especially in developing countries. Poverty often limits access to adequate nutrition, clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, all of which are critical factors in reducing infant mortality. Lack of these basic needs can lead to malnutrition, weakened immune systems, and increased vulnerability to diseases, resulting in higher infant mortality rates.
Overall, rapid population growth without corresponding improvements in healthcare infrastructure and access to essential services can significantly contribute to increased infant mortality rates. To address this issue, governments and healthcare providers need to invest in improving healthcare infrastructure, expanding access to healthcare services, and implementing effective public health interventions to reduce infant mortality and improve overall population health.