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What is the infant mortality rate defined as?

  1. The number of infants that survive in their first year

  2. The percentage of infants who die before their first birthday

  3. The total number of births in a given year

  4. The percentage of infants born with complications

The correct answer is: The percentage of infants who die before their first birthday

The infant mortality rate is defined as the percentage of infants who die before their first birthday. This measure is critical in assessing the health and well-being of a population, as it provides insights into the quality of healthcare, maternal health, nutrition, and living conditions within a society. High infant mortality rates often indicate underlying issues such as lack of access to proper medical care, inadequate maternal health services, and broader social determinants of health. The other options do not accurately describe the infant mortality rate. The first option discusses the number of infants who survive, which does not capture the actual rate of mortality. The total number of births refers to a different statistic and does not directly relate to mortality before one year of age. Lastly, the percentage of infants born with complications focuses on birth conditions rather than mortality rates post-birth. This distinction is important for understanding reproductive health and the effectiveness of healthcare systems.