Infant Mortality: Why Females Higher in 0-4 Yrs?

  • Thread starter Soaring Crane
  • Start date
In summary, females have a higher population in the younger age groups due to a combination of factors, including a slightly higher sex ratio at birth and lower risk of SIDS for females. However, this statistic does not hold true for all age groups and is not the only determining factor.
  • #1
Soaring Crane
469
0
Why would females have the higher population in the younger age groups (0-4 yrs.)? Does it have something to do with a biological advantage during conception?

Thanks.
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
Assuming that statistic to be true (I haven't checked), I do recall hearing that the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) is higher for males than for females. The cause of SIDS is unknown. Not to say that SIDS is the only reason, but it may be one factor.
 
  • #3
Phobos said:
Assuming that statistic to be true
It is not.
http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/xx.html#People


  • Sex ratio:

    at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female
    under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female
    15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female
    65 years and over: 0.79 male(s)/female
    total population: 1.01 male(s)/female (2004 est.)
 
Last edited by a moderator:

1. What is infant mortality?

Infant mortality refers to the death of a child under the age of one year. It is often used as a measure of a country's overall health and well-being.

2. Why are females more likely to die in the first 4 years of life?

There are several factors that contribute to higher infant mortality rates among females, including biological differences, social and cultural norms, and access to healthcare. Female infants are more vulnerable to certain health conditions such as prematurity and low birth weight, which can increase their risk of mortality.

3. How does this trend differ between countries?

The trend of higher female infant mortality rates in the first 4 years of life varies between countries. In some countries, female infants may have better survival rates than males, while in others, there may be little difference. Factors such as healthcare systems, cultural beliefs, and economic status can all play a role in these differences.

4. Can this trend be explained by genetics?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that genetics play a significant role in the higher mortality rates among female infants in the first 4 years of life. This trend is more likely influenced by environmental and societal factors.

5. What can be done to decrease female infant mortality?

To decrease female infant mortality rates, there needs to be a focus on improving access to quality healthcare for women and children, addressing cultural and societal norms that may hinder proper care for female infants, and promoting education and awareness about the importance of maternal and child health. Additionally, addressing social and economic inequalities can also have a positive impact on reducing infant mortality rates among females.

Similar threads

  • Biology and Medical
Replies
2
Views
972
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • Set Theory, Logic, Probability, Statistics
Replies
5
Views
953
Replies
14
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
965
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
2
Views
953
Back
Top