[Perspectives on future decline in child and adolescent mortality in Poland]

Mortality among children and adolescents is relatively low in higher developed countries, and the main causes of death reflect only a number of selected health problems among this population. However, it is worthwhile to refer to international statistics in order to show current trends and the distance that separates each country from the European average and the lowest rates noted in Europe. THE AIM of the study is to present current mortality data among children and adolescents aged 1-19 yrs in Poland compared to European Union statistics.

The study uses data published by the national Central Statistical Office and the interactive WHO HFA-MDB database (Health for All-Mortality Database).

The presently recorded number of deaths, among children and adolescents aged 1-19, is slightly below 2.5 thousand, that is 29 per 100 000 persons. A higher mortality rate among boys in comparison with girls continues to prevail, and a higher mortality rate in the rural areas in comparison with towns. In spite of the falling trend, mortality among children and young people in Poland continues to be higher than that observed in most European Union countries (Poland ranks 19th in a total of27). Poland occupies a particularly unfavourable position in statistics related to deaths from external causes and ill-defined symptoms. During the years 1990-2007 the strongest declining trend was noted with respect to the mortality of children aged 1-4, which is less dependent on external factors. In older age groups the declining trend detected in previous years came to a halt in the year 2000.

A further fall of the mortality rate of children and young people could be achieved by consistently implementing programmes preventing accidental injuries (road accidents, drowning, poisoning) and intentional injuries, particularly suicide. In order to improve the health of the young generation it is necessary to implement the postulate of the European Strategy for Child and Adolescent Health and Development on a consistent basis, including prevention of the effects of chronic diseases, mental health disorders and risk behaviour. There is a need for more concern about inequalities in health, especially differences resulting from place of residence and social group.