Mortality rate is the term used in reference to the ratio of the total number of deaths to the total population. That is, it is the rate of death in any given area. (Thus, this could be under death rate just as easily.)

Countries with a high population and low GNP often have a high mortality rate, especially as far as infants are concerned. (See: infant mortality rate). This includes third world countries. Incidentally, these countries generally also have a high number of births due to lack of education (as far as birth control goes). On top of that, there are religious conflicts such as the requirement of large families, and the fact that birth control is forbidden in a lot of these poorer countries with varying, but generally strict religions.

The more prosperous countries, such as Canada, and the United States, have lower mortality rates because of better health care (though that can be argued quite nicely). The promotion and acceptance of contraceptives helps keep the population under control to a point.

Thank you to Mr. Armstrong, the dear old man who taught me much about mortality rates, third world countries, and just what it means to be a good little human. nsrt