Non-Adult Morbidity and Mortality at Tell Abraq, United Arab Emirates (2197–2036 cal. B.C.)

Abstract

A large number of commingled non-adult human remains were recovered from a Bronze Age tomb (2197–2036 cal. B.C.) at the site of Tell Abraq in the United Arab Emirates. Non-adult age representation was assessed from femora in the tomb, which were subsequently analyzed for periosteal reactions and cortical thickness. Among the 127 non-adults, approximately 32% (n = 40) were aged as preterm or neonate. Evidence of periostosis among 41% of the observable femora suggests the possibility of infections or other diseases among some infants, but the deaths of the remaining non-adults are less clear in origin. Cortical bone maintenance was generally good, but older non-adults were more variable in percent cortical area scores. These results suggest that morbidity and mortality among Tell Abraq non-adults may be best understood through a more thorough examination of environmental and cultural factors.