The data presented here is described as generally consistent with the Annex Tables published in the WHO report “Global burden of disease: 2004 update”. Some revisions have been carried out for a number of countries following a consultation with Member States which took place during late 2008.  Comments or data provided by Member States were discussed with them and incorporated where appropriate.  Summary tables provided represent the best estimates of WHO – based on evidence available in mid-2008 – rather than the official estimates of Member States. These estimates have been computed using standard categories and methods to ensure cross-national comparability.