Interpreting ASDRs involves considering several factors:
Age Distribution: The age distribution of a population can significantly impact ASDRs. Populations with a higher proportion of older individuals may have higher overall mortality rates, necessitating age-standardization for accurate comparisons. Causes of Death: Different age groups may be affected by different causes of death. For example, infectious diseases may be more prevalent in younger age groups, while chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer are more common in older age groups. Socioeconomic Factors: Socioeconomic status, access to healthcare, and lifestyle factors can influence ASDRs. Populations with lower socioeconomic status may experience higher mortality rates due to limited access to healthcare and higher prevalence of risk factors.
