Urban-Rural Inequalities in Mortality across Age Groups: A Systematic Analysis of Survey Data in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Ashira Menashe Oren, Université Catholique de Louvain
Bruno Masquelier, Louvain University (UCL)

Evidence from sub-Saharan Africa suggests that while under-five mortality is higher in rural areas, adult mortality is often higher in urban areas. We systematically map these spatial differences in mortality over the life-course in low- and middle-income countries, examining how rural-urban disparities evolve as mortality rates decline and countries urbanise. We build on 133 Demographic and Health Surveys with full birth and sibling histories. Risk of dying in childhood is estimated using event history analysis for neonatal, child and early adolescence. Sibling survival is used to estimate mortality for 15-19 year olds, 20-34 and 35-50 year olds. Findings suggest that in higher mortality countries, inequalities are greater. Rural mortality remains higher amongst 5-14 year olds. In adulthood there is a crossover to higher urban mortality in many countries.