Objective

To disentangle the singular effects of biological, environmental, socioeconomic, and medical factors on the probability for infants to die.

Materials and Methods

Apply a Path Analysis to Colombia's complete records of infant births and deaths, and the availability of maternal and child health services, during 2003-2009.

Results

From a biological perspective, a high birth weight resulting from a normal gestational age is the most important variable to ensure the infant's survival. Prenatal care is key to reduce infant mortality. From a socioeconomic perspective, high levels of education and relative access to high quality care in the contributory social health insurance regime for maternal residence, contribute to higher chances of infant survival.

Conclusions

Related findings suggest that augmenting access to maternal, child and intensive care beds supported by the subsidized regime can reduce infant mortality.