Abstract

PIP: There were an estimated 50 million deaths worldwide in 1990, for a crude mortality rate of 9.5 per 1000 population. The rate of crude mortality has therefore declined from its 1985 estimated level of 10.1. In developed countries, 73% of mortality occurs among those aged 65 years and older. In developing countries, however, such mortality accounts for only 30% of total deaths. 33% and 2.4% of mortality in developing countries and developed countries, respectively, were among children younger than five years old. The main causes of death worldwide are infectious/parasitic diseases and perinatal causes. While the level of infant mortality dropped in developing countries from 106 per 1000 live births in 1970-75 to 91 by 1980-85, the UN Population Division still estimates that the infant mortality rate in those countries will be close to 60/1000 live births in the year 2000.