[Trends in mortality due to the main causes of death in Umbria (Italy), 1994-2004].

In order to obtain information regarding the efficacy of healthcare services in the region of Umbria (Italy), trends in mortality due to the main causes of death in this region, between 1994-2004, were analysed. Mortality data was collected from the Nominal Registry of Causes of Death. Standardized mortality and years of potential life lost (YPLL) rates, and cumulative death risk were used as indicators. Joinpoint regression was used to determine whether temporal changes in indicator trends were statistically significant. The joinpoint analysis of mortality trends has shown that general mortality, as well as specific mortality due to malignant tumors, cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disease and accidental causes declined over the examined time period. Statistically significant decreases in the indicators used were constant over time: in fact, joinpoints were found only for YPLL and cumulative risk trends for cardiovascular disease-related mortality. These results have provided important information regarding healthcare in the Umbria region.