According to the World Bank, in 2016 the infant mortality rate (IMR) in Ireland was 3; in Mali it was 68. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for this difference?
(1 point)
Responses
extremely high birth rates in Mali
the low dependency care ratios in Mali
differing levels of pre- and post-natal care
moderately low birth rates in Ireland
the high dependency care ratios in Ireland
The most likely explanation for the difference in infant mortality rate between Ireland and Mali is the differing levels of pre- and post-natal care.
The most likely explanation for the difference in infant mortality rates (IMR) between Ireland and Mali is differing levels of pre- and post-natal care.
The most likely explanation for the difference in infant mortality rates (IMR) between Ireland and Mali is differing levels of pre- and post-natal care (option c).
To arrive at this conclusion, we need to analyze the factors that contribute to infant mortality rates. Infant mortality rate is influenced by various factors such as socioeconomic conditions, healthcare access, prenatal care, and the quality of healthcare services.
In this case, we can eliminate options a and d, which focus on birth rates in each country. While birth rates may indirectly influence infant mortality rates, they do not explain the specific difference in IMR between Ireland and Mali.
Option b, which mentions the low dependency care ratios in Mali, is not a likely explanation. Dependency care ratio refers to the ratio of working-age population to the dependent population. While higher dependency care ratios may put more pressure on healthcare systems, it does not directly explain the difference in infant mortality rates between the two countries.
On the other hand, option c, differing levels of pre- and post-natal care, is a logical explanation. The quality and accessibility of prenatal and postnatal care significantly impact infant mortality rates. In Ireland, a higher level of healthcare resources and investment in prenatal and postnatal care may contribute to a lower IMR. In contrast, Mali, with its lower healthcare resources and potential challenges in accessing quality care, may experience a higher IMR.
Option e, high dependency care ratios in Ireland, is not a likely explanation as higher dependency care ratios are generally associated with lower IMR, as it typically indicates a larger working-age population supporting the dependent population.
Therefore, differing levels of pre- and post-natal care (option c) is the most likely explanation for the difference in infant mortality rates between Ireland and Mali.