Small-area variation in mortality in the city of Oulu, Finland, during theperiod 1978-1995

The aim of the present work was to explore small-area differences in mortal ity from all causes among males and females within the city of Oulu during the period 1978-1995 and to identify areas where mortality has been persist ently high or low. Analyses carried out using Geographical Information Syst em techniques with gee-referenced mortality data produced at a resolution o f 1 x 1 km showed significant regional variations in mortality within the c ity. The differences were wide enough to suggest variations of several year s in longevity, and were probably indicative of marked variations in the in cidences of diseases. Observed mortality differences may reflect the influe nce of the rapidly changing urban structure and consequent health effects b ased on selection, lifestyles, work exposures and deprivation. (C) 2001 Els evier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.