Rural/Urban Differences in Child Growth and Survival in Bolivia

Keywords

rural sociology, Bolivia, community conditions

Abstract

Abstract Using data from a national survey in Bolivia and from a regional sample of poor communities in two regions of Bolivia, we model the effects of community conditions, household characteristics, and social relations on child health as measured by child mortality and stunted growth. Based on national data, children in rural areas are twice as likely to die before the age of two than are children in large cities, and about one‐third of the children in rural areas are stunted. Including measures of community, household, and maternal characteristics accounts for at least two‐thirds of the urban/rural difference in child health. We conclude that expansion of health services, improvements in household and community sanitation, and socioeconomic development are all needed to overcome the rural disadvantage in child health.

Original Publication Citation

Heaton, Tim B. and Renata Forste. 2003.“Rural/Urban Differences in Child Growth and Survival in Bolivia.” Rural Sociology,68(3):410-433

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2009-10-22

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5625

Publisher

Rural Sociology

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Sociology

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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