Mortality in childhood, youth and early adulthood

Abstract

In 1971-1985 statistically significant social differences in mortality in youth and early adulthood were found in the city of Goteborg, when divided into 3 socio-economic area groups according to income. This applied to total mortality, to major biological causes of death and external causes of death, i.e. intentional injuries (mainly suicide) as well as accidents. The differences increased from 1971-1975 to 1981-1985. A similar pattern, which was not statistically significant, was found in childhood mortality. A comparison of the social differences in mortality in childhood, youth and early adulthood showed an increasing level of difference by age group. A political and administrative decentralization was implemented in Sweden in the 1980s. Local area research thus has relevance for policy, planning and provision of services. The results can be used in targeting for health and as a basis for planning of health and social services based on local needs. It gives an indication of the possible gains in public health if the socio-economic differences can be reduced. Further studies should focus upon the uneven distribution of possibly preventable risk factors behind the obseived inequality in mortality. Although further studies are needed as a basis for prevention, the social inequality in mortality rates and causes of death can be used in targeting for health and as a basis for the allocation of resources in health services.