POSTWAR MORTALITY TRENDS IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

Singapore has experienced significant reduction in mortality in the postwar period. Mortality level was alarmingly high in the early postwar period but has since reached a very low level in the 1990s. This is due to the success of public health measures implemented and advances in technology. The present study is an attempt to analyze the mortality pattern in the postwar period. This study is organized into five chapters. Chapter l introduce the various mortality indexes used to compute and report mortality trends. Sources of mortality data are also discussed. In addition, the chapter looks into the validity of mortality data since they have important implications in mortality analysis. Chapter 2 reviews the general mortality trend in the postwar period using crude death rate and infant mortality rate. This is followed by a discussion on neonatal and post-neonatal mortality. The chapter then concludes with an analysis on maternal mortality. Chapter 3 focuses on differential mortality in Singapore. Mortality differentials analyzed within Singapore include those by sex, age group and ethnic group. Basically, two techniques are used in the analysis. First, age specific mortality rate is used to analyze mortality differentials as it provides a more detailed picture of mortality by age. Second, life table technique is used, in particular, life expectancy and survivorship columns. The chapter tends to look at life expectancy at birth and at older ages. Interest is extended to older ages because Singapore is facing an ageing population. Chapter 4 is a study of cause specific mortality which is an important aspect in mortality analysis. The five major causes of death in recent years are highlighted. Each cause is then discussed in detail. There is substantial evidence to justify the shift from infectious diseases to degenerative diseases in the postwar period. The chapter also accounts for the health status of aged women because of their longer life expectancy. Finally chapter 5 summarizes the principal conclusions on mortality trends in the postwar period. Future life expectancy and trends in cause of death are prognosticated. Possible hindrances to efforts to reduce mortality in Singapore is also briefly mentioned.