• Corpus ID: 18047679

An integration of demographic and epidemiologic research on mortality in Kenya.

@inproceedings{Ewbank1986AnIO,
  title={An integration of demographic and epidemiologic research on mortality in Kenya.},
  author={Douglas C. Ewbank and R. A. Henin and John Kekovole},
  year={1986}
}

• D. Ewbank, R. Henin, J. Kekovole
• Published 1986
• Medicine

The authors examine and summarize findings of demographic and epidemiologic research on mortality in Kenya with a particular focus on the issues that are most important for formulating a national policy to reduce mortality. "This study includes three major components. The first is the estimation of the levels and trends in mortality for each of the 41 districts. This analysis provides the basis for discussing geographic differentials and for evaluating the reliability and generalizability of epidemiologic data on cause of death. The second component is a review of the studies of the effect of socio-economic and environmental factors and health programme availability on mortality differentials." In the third part the authors attempt "to estimate mortality rates by cause for the country and whenever possible to examine geographic differentials or time trends for specific causes of death. The emphasis on mortality reflects the authors belief that cause-specific and overall mortality rates should be the primary tool used by health planners in developing countries for setting priorities." It is concluded that "Kenya has experienced a substantial sustained decline in mortality for at least 35 years. Although it is clear that several health programmes have contributed to this decline (in particular immunization programmes) there is no evidence that the general availability of health facilities has been responsible for much of the decline. Instead most of the decline seems to be associated with general socio-economic development and related cultural changes. This is most clear in the relationship between education and mortality." (EXCERPT)