The mortality rate is a measure that indicates the number of deaths in a specific population over a certain period, usually expressed per 1,000 individuals. It helps public health officials understand how many people are dying in a community, which can be crucial for planning healthcare services and responding to health crises. For example, during a disease outbreak, the mortality rate can show how severe the situation is. This rate can vary based on factors like age, gender, and health conditions. For instance, the mortality rate for the elderly may be higher than for younger individuals. Understanding these differences helps researchers and policymakers, like the World Health Organization, create targeted interventions to improve health outcomes.