[Life expectancy at birth: impact of variation in mortality by age group and cause of death in Campinas, São Paulo State, Brazil].

This study investigated the impact of variation in mortality by age group and cause of death on gains in life expectancy at birth in the city of Campinas, São Paulo State, Brazil, in 1991, 2000, and 2005. Life tables were constructed. Pollard's method was used to estimate the contributions by age group and cause of death on gains in life expectancy. In 1991-2000, the age group that most contributed was 0-1 year (31.1% for males and 22.9% for females). In 2000-2005, 79% of the gain for males was the result of mortality improvements in the 15-44-year bracket. Cardiovascular diseases made the largest contribution in 1991-2000 (66.1% for males and 43.5% for females). A loss in longevity was seen in men (1.1 year) resulting from increased mortality from external causes. In 2000-2005, the substantial gain (2.3 year) in male life expectancy was due to a reduction in mortality from external causes. Neoplasms had a negative effect on the gain (0.11 year for males and 0.15 for females). These findings should help support public health policies to reduce mortality risks and increase life expectancy.