Mortality From External Causes in Lithuania: Looking for Critical Points in Time and Place

A study was undertaken to analyse trends in mortality from major external causes of death, & to detect urban/rural differences by cut points over the period of socioeconomic transition in Lithuanaia. Information on deaths for 1990-2000 was obtained. The Jointpoint analysis was used to identify best-fitting points wherever a statistically significant change in mortality occurred. The most critical point for external causes of mortality during the period of transition was 1994, when an increasing mortality trend reversed to a decreasing one. Mortality from suicides primarily caused these positive changes. Future progress requires sustained improvements in prevention & health policy. (27 refs.)