In 2008, Greece entered a deep financial crisis, which has raised concerns about severe public health consequences, economic downturns historically being associated with increases in mortality. In 2012, there were 116670 deaths in Greece, the highest number since 1949. The 2008-12 rise in the number of deaths (figure) is attributed to the increase in the number of deaths in the oldest individuals, with 12.5% and 24.3% increases in people aged 8O-84 years and older than 85 years, respectively (appendix). Analysis of mortality data obtained from the Hellenic Statistical Authority shows that in 2012, after 4 years of austerity, age-adjusted mortality in Greece was lower than in 2008. Age-specific mortality rates decreased for all age groups, with the exception of slight increases for individuals aged 5-9 years, 35-39 years, 55-59 years, and 65-69 years.
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