Changes in the level and pattern of mortality rates in Peninsular Malaysia, 1971-1983

Abstract

Mortality rates in developing countries have shown a rapidly declining trend since the end of World War II. Countries like Malaysia, Taiwan, Mauritius, Jamaica, and Mexico have increased life expectancy at birth at an average of over a year annually between the 1940's and 1960's (Gwatkin, 1980:616). There appeared to be special causes; probably due to control of endemic disease. Many developing countries have recorded life expectancy gains three or more times as great as those achieved in Western Europe at a comparable stage in its mortality transition (Gwatkin, 1980:616). Show more