Infanticide in Developing Countries
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I Prefer a more active baby, because when they are quick and lively they will never be at a loss in life. The worst temperament in a baby is one that is dull and morto de espirito [lifeless], a baby so calm it just sits there without any energy. When they grow up theyre good for nothing (379).
There is a little rural community in the northeast corner of Brazil named Alto do Cruzeiro which sustains an astoundingly high infant mortality rate. In a study of 72 women from within the community in which 686 pregnancies were reported, there were 251 childhood deaths, 36% within the first five years of life. This incredibly high death rate is attributed to the multitude of environmental atrocities within Alto. Parasitic infections, communicable diseases, malnutrition and dehydration along with gastroenteric disorders are the most prevalent baby killers although adults are by no means free from their effects. Nonexistent medical treatment, contaminated water supplies, food shortages, and filthy living conditions all promote and sustain these medical problems. Heavy environmental pressures alone, however, cannot explain the alarming high rate of infant mortalities. Social factors, the availability of parental care, (especially motherly care), along with cultural ideologies, help increase infant mortality rates...