Final answer:
A lower age-adjusted mortality rate than crude mortality rate suggests that when the different ages within a population are accounted for, the overall death risk is lower. This metric provides a more accurate reflection of health as it considers varying death risks at different ages. Developed nations typically have lower age-adjusted mortality rates due to better health care and living conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a lower age-adjusted mortality rate is reported compared to the crude mortality rate, it indicates that the age structure of the population has a significant effect on the overall mortality rate. The crude mortality rate is defined as the number of deaths per 1000 people in the population, without considering the age distribution of the group. However, age-adjusted rates take into account the age distribution, allowing for comparisons between populations with different age structures or over time within the same population when the age distribution changes.
Because the risk of death varies by age—infancy and old age typically have higher mortality risks—an age-adjusted rate provides a more accurate reflection of the actual mortality risk of a population. For example, a population with a younger average age might have a lower crude mortality rate simply because younger people have a statistically lower risk of death, not necessarily because they are healthier or have better healthcare.
Additionally, indicators such as life expectancy and infant mortality rate (the number of infant deaths per one thousand live births) also provide valuable insights into the overall health status of a population. Developed nations often show lower rates of infant mortality, higher life expectancy, and generally lower age-adjusted mortality rates, reflecting the availability of healthcare services, cleaner drinking water, and better sanitation facilities.