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| Author | K England |
| Abstract | In 2005 there were 3130 deaths in residents: 1576 male deaths and 1554 female deaths. The standardized mortality rate in Malta is decreasing and compares well with EU-15 (old member states) and EU-10 (new member states). 76% of all deaths occur in a hospital (St. Vincent de Paule included as a hospital). Number of deaths peak in the winter months (January-March, December). Deaths due to diseases of the circulatory system, namely ischaemic heart disease, stroke and heart failure are the leading causes of death accounting for 44% of all deaths. The standardized mortality rate for diseases of the circulatory system in Malta is lower than that of the new EU member states but higher than that of the old EU member states. However a decreasing trend is seen both in Malta as well as EU15, and EU10. Neoplasms are the next commonest cause of death accounting for 23% of all deaths. Lung cancer followed by colon and prostate are the commonest cancer killers in males. Breast cancer followed by colon and ovary are the commonest cancer killers in females. The standardized mortality rate for malignant neoplasms in Malta is lower than that of the average of the new EU member states and comparable to that of the old EU member states. The average age at death due to neoplasms is 69.7 years, nearly 10 years younger than that for circulatory diseases. Chest infections, dementia, pressure sores and falls are an important cause of death in the elderly. In the 15-44 age group traffic accidents and overdoses are the commonest causes of death. In infants below the age of one year 61% of all deaths were due to conditions related to prematurity, 30% due to congenital malformations. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is both a common cause of death as well as an important risk factor for circulatory diseases. The standardized mortality rate for DM in Malta is higher than that of EU-15 and EU-10. There were 381 deaths attributable to smoking: 269 male deaths and 112 female deaths. |
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| Key words | standardised mortality rate, neoplasm, smoking, health information |