Indigenous child mortality in the Peruvian rainforest: associated factors and discrimination

Introduction. Childhood among Indigenous Amazonian peoples in the Peruvian rainforest is marked by exclusion and discrimination. However, empirical evidence on child mortality in these populations has been limited, as standard surveys do not allow reliable estimates for groups that represent approximately 1% of the national population. Objectives. To analyze child mortality among Indigenous Amazonian peoples in Peru, identify associated factors, and examine patterns of discrimination. Methods. We used microdata from the 2017 National Population and Housing Census, as well as the 1993 and 2007 censuses, at the maternal level. Mortality estimates were produced and their associations with socioeconomic factors were analyzed. Results. We found pronounced inequities in child mortality affecting Indigenous Amazonian peoples, with rates among larger ethnic groups reaching up to 38 per thousand and even higher levels among smaller groups. Low maternal educational attainment and gaps in access to basic services—such as water and electricity—reveal strong structural discrimination associated with higher levels of child mortality. In addition, socioeconomic factors display differentiated patterns of association between Indigenous Amazonian and non-Indigenous populations. Conclusions: Child mortality among Indigenous Amazonian populations in Peru exhibits deep and persistent disparities. Reducing these gaps requires targeted public policies that prioritize specific and culturally appropriate services to address the structural inequalities affecting this population.