How biological and behavioral influences on mortality in malaysia vary during the 1st year of life
Devanzo, J.; Butz, W.P.; Habicht J P.
Population Studies 37(3): 381-402
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0032-4728 Document Number: 388498
Retrospective data from the 1976-1977 Malaysian Family Life Survey are used to examine the determinants of infant mortality variations in Peninsular Malaysia. It considers proximate biological correlates of mortality and family characteristics and behavior, and inspects the degree to which some of these latter factors exercise their effects indirectly through more proximate factors. It assesses how these influences and interactions change in importance through successive sub-periods of the 1st yr of an infant's life. Biological factors such as low birthweight are more important early in the 1st yr of life; such behavioral and environmental factors as mother's education, or types of water and sanitation system, are more important later. Breast-feeding significantly reduces mortality, especially during the 1st half of infancy. Unsupplemented breast-feeding is more beneficial than supplemented breast-feeding.