Health priorities: an analysis based on mortality statistics, Brasilia (Brazil), 1977-1978

Abstract

Mortality statistics were investigated in Brasilia (Brazil) during 1977-1978. Many deaths were among children. A breakdown into figures showed that mortality was greater among males and the main causes of death were: a) perinatal causes and infectious diseases among pre-school children; b) accidents among school children, adolescents, and young adults; c) heart disease and tumors in the middle-aged and elderly. This information is valuable in planning the utilization of public health resources.