The death of a child is a tragic loss. Yet, every year, almost 11 million children die — that is, 30,000 children a day — before their fifth birthday. Most of these children live in developing countries and die from a disease or a combination of diseases that can be prevented or treated by existing inexpensive means. Malnutrition contributes to over half these deaths. Child mortality is closely linked to poverty: advances in infant and child survival have come more slowly to people in poor countries and to the poorest people in wealthier countries. Improvements in public-health services are key, including safe water and better sanitation. Education, especially for girls and mothers, saves children’s lives. Raising incomes can help, but little will be achieved unless services reach those who need them most.

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