What was Killing Babies in Trondheim? An Investigation of Infant Mortality Using Individual Level Causes of Death, 1830–1907

This paper examines infant mortality amongst newborns in Trondheim city, 1830–1907, working specifically with individual level cause of death data. Findings show that the city started to drop from 1895, primarily as a result decline post-neonatal mortality. At start air-borne diseases accounted for nearly half deaths, and water-food borne around one third. The was predominantly driven by these two causal groups, seasonal fluctuations became less pronounced. Because fall mortality, relative risk dying neonates rose towards end period. Although 'convulsions' 50–70% all deaths between 1830 1860, this had faded away near insignificance beginning 1900s. Here we aim assess extent which particular aspect can be explained alterations official instructions regarding registration practice itself. article proposes relabelling such into 'congenital birth disorders' neonates, mix 'water-food borne' 'air-borne diseases' post-neonates. argument is supported fact timing corresponds introduction certificates issued medical practitioners, most likely resulted fewer causes being reported lay informants who could only offer vague symptoms rather than informed diagnoses.