article

Sudden adult death in Asian populations: the case of the Hmong

hmong in the west : observations and reports • Minneapolis, Minn. • Published In 1982 • Pages: 307-319

By: Munger, Ronald Grant.

Abstract

This article examines the nature and incidence of the sudden unexplained deaths that occur among Hmong and other Asian groups while the individual has been asleep. Post-mortem examinations of the deceased generally have been negative in regard to pathological or toxicological causes of death. Popular speculations regarding the sudden death 'syndrome' suggest that it may be caused by nightmare fright, chemical exposure (in Laos), or congenital effects due to inbreeding, but there is no evidence to support any of these claims. The author suggests the possibility that these deaths may be caused by obstructive sleep apnea, characterized by upper airway obstruction during sleep. At the present time these deaths still remain unexplained.

HRAF PubDate

2000

Region

North America

Sub Region

Regional, Ethnic and Diaspora Cultures

Document Type

article

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

John Beierle ; 1991

Field Date

no date

Coverage Date

not specified

Coverage Place

United States

Notes

[by] Ronald Grant Munger

Includes bibliographical references (p. 317-319)

LCSH

Hmong Americans