Temporal and Spatial Patterns of Mortality Gender Gap in Developing Countries: evidence from Brazil from 1980 to 2022

Everton Lima, Unicamp
Bernardo Queiroz , UFMG
Vegard Skirbekk, University of Oslo and Norwegian Institute of Public Health

Brazil presents a significant and enduring gender gap in life expectancy, expanding from 3.2 to nearly 8 years (1980–2024), driven by complex structural inequalities in health, violence exposure, and socioeconomic conditions. This study investigates the temporal and spatial evolution of adult mortality (15–60 years) across Brazil's meso-regions (1980–2022). This focus is crucial for understanding labor force health and the impact of social policy. Mortality data (DATASUS) were corrected using death distribution methods to account for mortality underreporting, particularly in the North and Northeast. The analysis used the probability of dying (45q15) and the male-to-female mortality ratio as indicator of gender gap. Between 1980 and 2022, female adult mortality rates declined from 0.14 to 0.09, while male rates decreased less sharply (0.23 to 0.19), widening the average gender gap ratio from 1.72 to 2.07. Spatially, the gap intensified first in urbanized, economically advanced regions (South/Southeast). A strong negative correlation exists between the gap and female mortality, suggesting men in regions with rapid female health gains have not benefited equally. The widening gap reflects uneven health improvements. Men are disproportionately affected by external causes and behavioral risks. Targeted interventions addressing male-specific vulnerabilities are essential for reducing mortality disparities and promoting equitable health progress across all regions.

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 Presented in Session P6. Health, Mortality, and Ageing 2