Examining mortality rates over the centuries: Employing a large family-tree analysis in the United States

Abstract

Background In an extended family case study approach, analysis of infant mortality, under-five mortality, maternal mortality, and life spans among ancestors have been calculated. This allows for comparisons across centuries and comparison of the health status of immigrant families and their counterparts remaining in Europe. Methods Data sources included oral histories verified by US and Italian census records, US immigration records, vital statistics, burial, and military records: n = 2000, sources = 4000 records. The family originated from a 500-acre village in Calabria, Italy. Results Infant mortality rates were highest among those born between 1860 and 1869. Ten maternal deaths were identified; 9 in the 1800s and one in the 1900s. Life span varied significantly between immigrants to North America and those who remained in Italy. Conclusion This historical research explores the hardship and poverty among immigrants in the United States and examines the parallel experiences of their family members in Italy. In addition, this research serves as a teaching tool in Epidemiology coursework.