[Orphans in Brazzaville orphanages].

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Sociology

Context:

• Orphanhood is a significant global issue, particularly in developing nations.
• Brazzaville faces a substantial challenge with a large population of orphaned children.
• Orphanages serve as a critical, albeit sometimes strained, support system for vulnerable children.

Purpose:

• To investigate the epidemiological landscape of orphans in Brazzaville.
• To identify the socio-medical factors influencing the placement of children in institutional care.
• To evaluate the conditions within Brazzaville orphanages.

Summary:

• A cross-sectional study in Brazzaville identified 162 orphans across 12 institutions.
• The primary reason for placement was financial distress (84.5%), followed by social reasons and abandonment.
• Leading causes of parental death included complications from pregnancy and childbirth (45%), war (28%), and HIV infection (16%).

Impact:

• Findings highlight the urgent need for financial support and social services to aid families and prevent institutionalization.
• Recommendations include improving living conditions and providing targeted support within orphanages.
• This research provides essential data for policymakers and aid organizations working with orphaned children in similar contexts.