Mortality rates refer to the number of deaths in a specific population over a certain period, usually expressed per 1,000 individuals. These rates help public health officials understand the overall health of a community and identify trends related to diseases, accidents, or other causes of death. Factors influencing mortality rates include age, gender, lifestyle, and access to healthcare. For example, infant mortality rates measure the deaths of infants under one year old, while life expectancy indicates the average age individuals are expected to live. Understanding these rates is crucial for improving health policies and outcomes.