A Comparative Bioarchaeology of Health and Status in Pre-Classical K’axob and Cuello

Summary

This paper explores whether there is a statistical difference in rates of non-specific infection between two Maya pre-classic villages, K’axob and Cuello, and whether these findings can be correlated to social status within and between the two villages. Using representative skeletal samples from these populations, an osteological analysis is performed to determine the presence of non-specific infection markers in the form of periosteal reactions. Any signs of reaction are scored by level of severity and stage of healing, and results from the samples are compared. Combining these health indicators with other socioeconomic factors can be informative about the social status of individuals and allow both a correlation of infection rates among suspected elite versus non-elite individuals, as well as make a socioeconomic versus health status comparison between two villages within the region coexisting within the same period. Results may aid future inquiry into non-specific infection rates among the pre-classic Maya of the lowlands, and provide an overall picture of health within a framework of social conditions during this pivotal time-period in Maya development. Furthermore, if infection rates are similar between K’axob and Cuello, this information could be used to make inferences about other similar Maya groups during the pre-classic.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 83rd Annual Meeting, Washington, DC (2018)

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Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 20585