Work

Violence and Birth Outcomes: Evidence from Homicides in Brazil

Year: 2015

Type: book

Abstract: This paper uses microdata from Brazilian natality and mortality vital statistics between 2000 and 2010 to estimate the impact of in-utero exposure to local violence - measured by homicide rates - on birth outcomes. The estimates shows that exposure to violence during the first trimester of pregnancy leads to a small but precisely estimated increase in the risk of low birthweight and prematurity. Effects are found in both rural areas, where homicides are rare, and in urban areas, where violence is endemic. Our estimates imply that homicides in Brazil are responsible for at least 0.5 percent of the incidence of low birthweight (<=2.5 kg) and 3 percent of the incidence of extremely low birthweight (<=1 kg).

Source: London School of Economics and Political Science Research Online (London School of Economics and Political Science)

Authors: Martin Foureaux Koppensteiner, Marco Manacorda

Institutions: University of Leicester, Queen Mary University of London, Centre for Economic Policy Research, London School of Economics and Political Science

Language: English

Topic: Maternal and Neonatal Healthcare

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: green

Funders: Inter-American Development Bank, Economic and Social Research Council

Award: G5435397017