Teachers Guide: Discussion Questions
Chart
Major Causes of Death in the United States and Peru
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* Includes diarrhea and inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
** Primarily influenza, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
Source: Pan American Health Organization, Health in the Americas 2 (1998); and National Center for Health Statistics, National Vital Statistics Reports 47: 19 (June 30, 1999).
- What was the leading cause of death in the United States in 1997? What proportion of deaths was attributable to this cause in the United States in 1900 and in Peru in 1992?
- What proportion of deaths in Peru in 1992 did infectious and parasitic diseases cause?
Reading
- How have life expectancies changed in more developed countries since the Roman Empire?
- Why are infant mortality rates over 100 in some less developed countries?
- What types of diseases are the most common causes of death in the more developed regions?
Data
- Examine the columns on the World Population Data Sheet showing infant mortality and life expectancy. Find these variables for 10 countries and examine their relationship. Examine the relationship between the IMR, the birth rate, and GNP per capita.
Discussion
- Consider the implications of citizens' health on decisionmakers in local governments.