The Child Mortality Disadvantage among Indigenous People in Mexico

This paper compares child mortality rates of Indigenous people with national rates. A long history of discrimination and exclusion experienced by indigenous residents of Mexico has created substantial disadvantage in terms of living conditions, education, and access to state resources. Recent policy efforts have been designed to address issues of poverty and inadequate health care. This paper uses data from the 2000 census of Mexico to examine: 1) the relative risk of child mortality among indigenous people, 2) the influence of living conditions, education and demographic characteristics on mortality differentials, and 3) the role of government programs in reducing mortality differentials. Results indicate that poor living conditions, low education and concentration in rural areas account for higher indigenous mortality. National programs have played a modest role in reducing mortality differentials.