Gender disparities in mortality : challenges for health equity in Puerto Rico.

Abstract

The aim of this study is to deepen the analysis of mortality indicators by sex in Puerto Rico. The gender perspective is used to identify the differentials and inequalities that generate disparities in mortality among women and men in that country. In 2008- 2010, life expectancy at birth for both sexes reached 78.83 years, with a gap of 7.71 years among women and men, which is higher in the group of very low mortality countries, internationally. The years of potential life lost (YPLL) by age and external causes of death and natural death are used, among other indicators, for further analysis of male mortality from a gender perspective. Young men have a very high premature mortality because many deaths are due to by external causes: homicides, suicides and accidents. In the case of women’s, premature deaths are prevalent due natural causes in all age groups. The result of the study is to promote gender mainstreaming to achieve health equity for women and men. Puerto Rico requires health plans, programs and policies that take into account gender disparities in order to achieve a longer life span-free of preventable disease, disability, injury and premature death- which currently affects more men than women.