article

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

hmong in the west : observations and reportsMinneapolis, 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.
Subjects
Mortality
culture
North American Hmong
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