Applying group-based trajectory modeling to understand under-five mortality trends and determinants in low-and lower-middle income countries

Findings from our study revealed the importance of considering both health and non-health factors in understanding trajectories of under-five mortality. In particular the fertility rate and % of GDP on health expenditures were signicant for all three comparisons of the trajectory group membership analysis (time-stable covariates) and were significant for all four groups in the within group analysis (time varying covariates). Other factors were significant for some comparisons and groups. Focusing on a number of key factors relevant to their group could help countries to further improve the health of young children.