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[Human sex ratio and sex-related selection at birth]

Genetika
|November 1, 1978
PubMed

Insights

The study reveals a significant increase in the male-to-female sex ratio among infant deaths during the perinatal period, particularly after birth. This highlights a shift in sex-linked mortality patterns from the antenatal to the postnatal stage.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Biology
  • Perinatal Medicine
  • Human Demography

Context:

  • The perinatal period is a critical phase for infant survival.
  • Understanding sex-specific mortality patterns is crucial for public health.
  • Previous research indicates higher male mortality in later life stages.

Purpose:

  • To investigate sex ratio variations across different perinatal phases (antenatal, intranatal, postnatal).
  • To identify statistically significant differences in sex-specific mortality during the perinatal period.
  • To analyze the manifestation of differential sex-linked mortality from extrauterine life onwards.

Summary:

  • Analysis of 11,500 infant deaths across antenatal, intranatal, and postnatal periods.
  • Observed sex ratios: 107 M:100 F (antenatal), 136 M:100 F (intranatal), 168 M:100 F (postnatal).
  • Statistically significant increases in male mortality were noted at each stage (p < 0.001), especially post-birth.

Impact:

  • Demonstrates a distinct shift in sex-linked mortality during the perinatal phase.
  • Suggests that higher male mortality, typical of postnatal development, begins immediately after birth.
  • Provides critical data for targeted interventions in perinatal care and infant health.

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