讲座简介:
In contrast to mortality dynamics in the former socialist economies in Europe during their transition era, few studies examine mortality changes in China after it began socialist economic reforms. We examine mortality trends of Shanghai permanent residents when China transformed from Planned Socialism to State Capitalism. The previously steady improvement of life expectancy slowed down during 1992–1996. Mortality among young working age males (20-44 years old) increased, largely due to rising cardiovascular disease and injury. Transportation deaths increased but not suicide and liver disease. These unfavorable mortality patterns related to reform-associated institutional changes with deterioration of social insurance, increased unemployment, psychological stress, and unsafe transport and environment. However, the unfavorable effects on mortality were moderate and transient due to gradualist reform strategies and strong institutions with rapid economic growth. Lessons learned from the Shanghai experience may be useful for other socialist countries (e.g. North Korea or Cuba) if they implement reforms to market economies. These lessons can also be applied when implementing other social and institutional changes.
