Mortality and causes of death in Thailand: Evidence from the survey of population change and death registration

Death is a major factor affecting a country’s population structure. Evidence shows that death rates tend to decrease continuously and rapidly as a consequence of continued improvements in medical care and the public health system along with socio-economic development. Infant, child and maternal mortality are, therefore, often used as indicators, reflecting the effectiveness of the public health system and improvements in the quality of life. In Thailand, such improvements have been evident. From 1964-1965 to 1995-1996, male and female life expectancy at birth increased from 59.9 to 69.9 years and 62 to 74.9 years, respectively.