AN ANALYSIS OF THE REASONS FOR JAPAN LOW INFANT-MORTALITY RATE

Japan's infant mortality rate in 1991 was four per 1,000, the lowest i n the world. Contributing factors are the universal use of the Boshi K enko Techo (maternal-child health handbook) and universal access to ca re. Most births occur to women aged 25-29 years and there are few unma rried mothers. Ninety-nine and seven-tenths percent of births are atte nded by qualified professionals either in hospitals or private clinics , with an average stay of one week postpartum. Abortion is available w hen contraceptives fail. There are government subsidies for medical, o bstetric, and pediatric complications. Japanese citizens are highly li terate and seek out medical advice, and their society is organized to support children. Efficient systems of community support, public healt h education, and excellent medical care encompass events from concepti on to school age.