L’effet à long terme de la vie reproductive sur la mortalité des femmes en milieu rural sénégalais

Population ageing in sub-Saharan Africa raises new concerns about mature adult mortality patterns and differentials, but little is known in this region due to the lack of data. This study examines the long term effects of reproductive history on female mortality in three local rural areas in Senegal where population have been followed up for decades. We study mortality differentials according to the past reproductive history of females aged between 50 and 70 in the period 1985-2011. We find that age at first and last deliveries impact mortality levels, as does the number of children ever born. Looking at the sex of the childrenand their vital status at age 5, we note that the number of boys is negatively associated with mortality rates, by a larger extent than the number of girls. In virilocal societies, social factors probably have a strong impact. This result opens future research avenues on the issue of the care of the elderly.

Examining underlying determinants of fertility rates in Zambia: Evidence from the 2007 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey

Limited data exits on factors influencing fertility in Zambia. This study examined underlying determinants of fertility patterns and levels in Zambia. Data extracted from the 2007 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey was analysed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. Of 7146 women aged 15-49 years, age group 25-29 years experienced the highest prevalence of births (28.5%). Married women accounted for 27% of all births. Women with low education recorded more births (27%) than those with higher education (9.5%) (P<0.001). Fertility was higher among the poorest (28%) compared to the richest (12%) (P<0.001). Though not statistically significant, urban areas recorded more births (25%) than rural areas (15%). Education and wealth significantly influence fertility Zambia. Fertility management strategies should consider these factors and their fertility reducing effects. Improving education and wealth status of women can contribute to fertility reduction, particularly rural women. Lower fertility, with reduced mortality and migration, would provide less pressure on distribution of the limited economic resources of the country.