Seasonal variation of neonatal and infant deaths by cause in Greece

The seasonal variation of neonatal and infant deaths in Greece was analyzed for nine consecutive years (1979-1987) by cause of death, age of death and urbanization of permanent residence. Data were supplied by the National Statistical Service of Greece. Statistical analysis was done using the Edward's method. The seasonal patterns of the number of deaths and death rates were similar. Neonatal deaths in total did not show significant seasonality but post-neonatal deaths showed seasonal variation with a peak in the winter, more evident in rural areas. Neonatal deaths from prematurity showed statistically significant seasonal variation with a peak in May. Postneonatal deaths from infections and mainly those from pneumonia showed very significant seasonal variation with a peak in February that was more prominent in rural areas. Seasonal pattern with peak in late winter was also found for postneonatal deaths from injuries. The seasonal patterns for neonatal and postneonatal deaths from sudden infant death syndrome were suggestive of an increased occurrence during the winter months mainly in urban areas.