Mortality in three departments of Colombia: A preliminary assessment

Abstract

An analysis of published data on causes of mortality for six age groups in the Departments of Caldas, Quindío and Risaralda, Colombia, shows that prior to age 45 most deaths are from causes susceptible to public health programmes. However, improvements in sanitation and in the control of infectious diseases will be beneficial mainly to children and the elderly. To reduce the high death rate among young adults, social and economic measures are needed. Shortages of medical personnel are reflected in a high proportion of deaths without prior medical attention and also in inaccurate recording of causes of death. Social security improvements help those who are covered but have a negative effect on those outside the system.