Seasonality Patterns of Causes of Death in Kenya

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to examine the trend of seasonal and regional variations in patterns of all causes of deaths combined in Kenya. If the variations existed the next step was to investigate the correlation between deaths and some environmental factors that have brought about these variations. The thesis also aimed at studying regional mortality differentials by age, sex and causes of death. It was established from the study that distinct regional and seasonal variations in the patterns of all causes of deaths combined exist in Kenya. Death toll at its peak between June and August at the national level, for the period 1975-1979. At provincial level, Nyanza and Central Provinces have their peaks between the months of July and August; while for Eastern, Western, North-Eastern, Coast, Rift-Valley provinces, and Nairobi, this was between April and June; May and August; February and June; February and July; January and August; and, May and August; respectively. Death toll 1S at minimum during the months of December, January and February at the national level. However, at the provincial level, we have generally, January, December. February, September, October, November and This differed from one province to the other. The study revealed that environmental factors were responsible for both regional and seasonal variations in patterns of death. There was positive multiple correlation (R) between the four environmental factors analysed and deaths. The correlations (R) in Kakamega, Kiambu and Mombasa were :- Rainfall 0.35621,011050 and 0.34317;" Relative Humidity:- 0.38950, 0.15925,' and 0.11276; Temperature:- 0.56996, 0.33951 and 0.10477; and Morbidity:- 0.87033, 0.32969, and 0.46645; respectively. Variations of deaths by age were found to exist. From the 1975 registration, over 35% were infants; 17.9% were deaths between ages 1 and 14 years; 20.7% ages 15 to 64; and 26.0% ages 65 and above. Also male deaths were found to be more than females(at every age group. The three leading groups of diseases being causes of death are:- Infective and Parasitic diseases; Diseases of Respiratory System; and Circulatory diseases. These diseases seem to be common in all regions. The only difference is the prevalence. One may be more common than others in a particular region. Further work needs to be done on the statistical analysis of these diseases. For example, further breakdown of the class or code will help us to find the prevalent diseases in specific regions.