Infant mortality Social inequality in a Swedish city

Abstract

Infant mortality rates for geographical areas of Goteborg (Gothenburg), Sweden, were studied for 78,357 infants living in Goteborg from 1971 to 1985. During this time 637 infant deaths occurred. The 32 parishes of Goteborg were divided into three groups referred to as high, medium and low income areas. The difference in infant mortality among the areas was statistically significant and increased over time. The relative risk of Infant death was 1.8 in the medium and 2.0 in the low compared to the high income areas in 1981–1985. The infant mortality rate varied from 3.8 to 7.6/1000. The high income areas had lower death rates overall, in congenital malformations and in perinatal conditions. The low income areas had a significantly higher rate of sudden infant death syndrome than the other groups. Political and administrative decentralization was implemented in Sweden in the 1980s. Local area research thus has a direct relevance for policy, planning and provision of services. The results reflect the social segregation, associated not only with economic stratification but also with differences in lifestyles and cultural environment. Further analyses are necessary to provide Information on preventable risk factors In order to decrease the observed socio-economic differences. The results can, however, be used for targeting infant mortality levels and for the allocation of resources.