Trends in mortality patterns in two countries with different welfare models: comparisons between CUBA and Denmark...

Area of Science:

• Demography
• Public Health
• Comparative Welfare Studies

Background:

• Cuba and Denmark, with distinct welfare models, exhibit comparable life expectancy levels.
• Investigating mortality patterns reveals insights into population health dynamics across different socioeconomic contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare mortality changes and life expectancy trends in Cuba and Denmark since 1955.
• To analyze age-specific mortality contributions and lifespan variation between the two nations.

Main Methods:

• Utilized life table data based on population numbers and deaths for Cuba and Denmark.
• Quantified changes in age-at-death distributions and age-specific mortality rates.
• Assessed lifespan variation and mortality pattern shifts since 1955.

Main Results:

• Life expectancy converged between Cuba and Denmark until 2000, with Cuba's growth slowing thereafter.
• Infant mortality significantly decreased in both nations, particularly in Cuba.
• Both populations demonstrated mortality compression, marked by reduced lifespan variation due to delayed early deaths.

Conclusions:

• Cuban health achievements are notable given historical socioeconomic conditions.
• Both nations face challenges from aging populations.
• Cuba's health system is strained by economic deterioration, impacting welfare outcomes.