Socioeconomic conditions, health and mortality from birth to adulthood, Alghero 1866-1925

This paper examines the impact of socioeconomic conditions on health and mortality between birth and adulthood within the Sardinian community of Alghero, based on data from civil registers and military conscription lists for the period 1866-1925. Socioeconomic status does prove to have a significant effect on chances of survival especially in infancy and late childhood, although no clear trend in mortality differentials by SES emerges for the period studied. The determining role of SES in creating differentials in health status in early adulthood is much more evident.

Research highlights► We studied the impact of socioeconomic conditions on health status and mortality. ► We investigated the birth cohorts 1866-1925 of a Sardinian municipality. ► We used vital events and military registers. ► Socioeconomic status affected mortality in infancy and late childhood. ► Clear differentials by socioeconomic status were found in health conditions at call-up.