Infant mortality in Chile: 1989-1998

Abstract

Since 1960 infant mortality (IM) in Chile has decreased owing to multiple factors. This paper aims to compare the IM rate and its causes between 1989 and 1998 in Chile. Using a time sequence study, IM data was obtained from the Demographic Annual Reports of the National Institute of Statistics. Results: a 40% reduction in the total number of deaths (5,183 vs less than 2,793 in 1989 and 1998 respectively). The main causes of death were perinatal pathology, malformations and respiratory diseases. Specific causes of death were pneumonia and immaturity. Conclusions: in Chile the so called "avoidable deaths" account for most of the IM during the 90s, hence it is important to continue making efforts to prevent them.