Persistent geographical disparities in infant mortality rates in Italy (1999-2001): comparison with France, England, Germany, and Portugal.

Background: Infant mortality rate (IMR) is used as a population health indicator. We provide an updated description of temporal and geographical trends of IMR in Italy.

Methods: Regional data on infant deaths and live births were available for France, Germany, England, Portugal (1999-2000), and Italy (1990-2001). Mortality rates including 95% CIs and time-trends were computed.

Results: IMR was 4.5 per 1000 live births in 1999-2001. Between 1999-2001 and 1990-1992 both neonatal and post-neonatal mortality rates declined (P < 0.05) but not the North/South ratio. In 1999-2000 the regional variability in IMR was higher in Italy than in other European countries.

Conclusion: Despite progresses in reducing IMR, geographical disparities persist within Italy.