The global infant mortality rate continues to be alarming, especially in the world's poorest countries, according to a UNICEF report.

Kazakhstan ranked 122nd among 184 countries in terms of infant mortality rates. UNICEF believes that progress occurred in 2008, when the country moved to the international criteria for live birth. The rates of neonatal mortality decreased by more than 50%.

Infants born in Japan, Iceland and Singapore are more likely to survive, while newborns in Pakistan, the Central African Republic and Afghanistan have virtually no chance.

The study showed that if in each country the death rate of newborns dropped to the average of high-income countries by 2030, then 16 million children would be saved.

“The Qazaq Times”