The Cost of Survival: Child Mortality vs. Health Expenditure in 2022

In a world where healthcare advancements have dramatically reduced child mortality, disparities remain stark. The visualization from Our World in Data paints a clear picture: the amount a country spends on healthcare per capita is closely tied to child survival rates, yet vast inequalities persist.

The Unequal Cost of Life

From the chart, we observe that countries with lower health expenditure per capita—predominantly in Africa and parts of Asia—struggle with higher child mortality rates. Nations like South Sudan, Nigeria, and Niger have some of the highest mortality rates, with over 5–10 deaths per 100 live births. These countries spend less than $500 per capita on healthcare.

In contrast, wealthier nations such as Norway, United States, and Germany, where health spending exceeds $5,000 per capita, have child mortality rates below 0.5%. The United States stands as an outlier—despite spending over $10,000 per capita, its child mortality rate remains higher than expected compared to European peers, signaling inefficiencies in healthcare access and equity.

India, China, and the Middle Path

Emerging economies such as India and China sit in a middle zone, with moderate health expenditure and child mortality rates around 2% or lower. India's large population and relatively lower spending highlight the immense challenge of scaling healthcare access. Meanwhile, China, with increasing investment in healthcare, shows progress in reducing child mortality.

What This Means for Global Health

This visualization underscores the urgency of equitable healthcare investments. While spending more does not always guarantee better outcomes, strategic investments in maternal and child health, vaccination programs, and healthcare infrastructure can significantly reduce child mortality. The lesson is clear: a child's chance of survival should not depend on where they are born.

Governments, NGOs, and policymakers must prioritize cost-effective interventions, ensuring that even low-income nations can bridge the healthcare gap. A future where child mortality is no longer dictated by economic disparities is within reach—but only if we act now.