Impact of Non-Health Sector Determinants on Child Health and the Role of the Sustainable Development Goals

Summary

Significant progress has been made in child health in Cambodia and globally during the past decades, and in 2015 the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted as a holistic approach to sustainable development. However, the understanding of the non-health determinants affecting child health remains limited in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), especially concerning the underlying causes of child mortality and the incidence of infectious diseases, and the need for multisectoral collaboration. This development dissertation brief (DDB) is a summary of my doctoral thesis that addresses these knowledge gaps by exploring the relationship between child health and the SDGs in Cambodia and in other (LMICs) through qualitative and quantitative methods. The findings of the thesis indicate that, except for SDG 15 (Life on land), there are synergies between child health and the level of progress towards the SDGs in Cambodia, particularly with SDG 16: Peace, justice, and strong institutions – showing significant relevance for improving child health.

However, challenges persist in applying multisectoral collaboration theories effectively to address social factors. Analyses of recent Demographic Health Survey (DHS) data reveals key determinants of under-five mortality and morbidity from infectious diseases, including maternal contraceptive use, household water sources, and wealth. These factors remain critical in both Cambodia and other LMICs. The thesis emphasizes leveraging synergies among the SDGs while addressing inherent trade-offs to enhance child health outcomes, while advocating for a holistic approach to interventions for vulnerable children globally.