Kwanchit Sasiwongsaroj. Inequality of child mortality among ethnic groups in Thailand : a quantitative and qualitative study. Doctoral Degree(Demography). Mahidol University. : Mahidol University, 2553-06-09.
Inequality of child mortality among ethnic groups in Thailand : a quantitative and qualitative study
Abstract:
This study was undertaken to explore the inequalities in child mortality among
nine ethnic groups in Thailand, including the Thai. This study used both quantitative
and qualitative approaches. The 2000 population and housing census was employed
to estimate the mortality rates for children under five (Under-five Mortality Rate:
U5MR) by using an indirect demographic method. The factors contributing to the
differences of child mortality among ethnic groups were investigated through an
ethnographic approach based on Mosley and Chen conceptual model (1984). Karen
and Mon were purposively selected to explore the mortality inequality in the village
context in the Kanchanaburi province.
The findings indicated that the U5MR was different among the nine ethnic
groups throughout 1986-1996. The Chinese had the lowest rates followed by Thai,
Khmer, Malay, and Mon, respectively, whereas ethnic hilltribes had higher rates
than the former groups. The child mortality difference was mainly explained the by
Mosley and Chen analytic model. The differences between U5MR were related to
the socioeconomic status of a household. The ethnic groups with a higher
socioeconomic status were more likely to have low mortality rates than their low
socioeconomic status counterparts. Additionally, the findings from the qualitative
method found a crucial factor, assimilation, that emerged beyond Mosley and Chen
framework (1984). The Mon who had a higher probability of a child surviving than
the Karen, habitually moved to settle close to Thai people. Their health perceptions
and practices were shaped by Thai traditions that, in turn, led them to use health care
services which benefited their children’s health and survival. Meanwhile, the Karen
had a subsistence living in inaccessible locations leading them to have a lower
assimilation than the Mon. Their low income and lack of health information and
knowledge impeded the Karen from seeking professional health services.
This study highlights the need for urgent policy initiatives to reduce the gap
of child mortality, especially among ethnic hilltribes. An improvement in the
socioeconomic status and access to health services may improve the chances of
child survival among these groups.