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Selective migration and infant mortality among Puerto Ricans
Nancy S Landale1, Bridget K Gorman, R S Oropesa
1Department of Sociology and Population Research Institute, Pennsylvania State University, USA. landale@pop.psu.edu
Maternal and Child Health Journal
|May 25, 2006
Summary
Recent Puerto Rican migrants to the US have lower infant mortality due to selective migration. However, prolonged US residence increases infant mortality risk for these mothers.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Sociology
- Demography
Background:
- Infant mortality rates among Puerto Rican populations in the US require further investigation.
- Understanding the impact of migration on infant health outcomes is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between migration to the US and infant mortality among Puerto Rican mothers.
- To assess the influence of selective migration and duration of US residence on infant mortality risk.
Main Methods:
- Utilized survey data from birth and infant death records in the US and Puerto Rico.
- Employed logistic regression and fixed-effects models to analyze infant mortality risk.
Main Results:
- Initial lower infant mortality risk for migrants compared to non-migrants in Puerto Rico.
- Fixed-effects models revealed no significant difference in infant mortality risk once maternal characteristics were controlled.
- Increased duration of US residence correlated with a higher risk of infant mortality.
Conclusions:
- Selective migration contributes to lower infant mortality among recent Puerto Rican migrants.
- Migrants possess inherent qualities favoring offspring health, which diminish with extended US residency.