Work

Social inequalities in health among the elderly

Year: 2011

Type: article

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to assess social inequalities in health status, health behavior and the use of health services based on education level. A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out involving 1,518 elderly residents of Campinas, São Paulo State, Brazil. Significant demographic and social differences were found between schooling strata. Elderly individuals with a higher degree of schooling are in greater proportion alcohol drinkers, physically active, have healthier diets and a lower prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dizziness, headaches, back pain, visual impairment and denture use, and better self-rated health. But, there were no differences in the use of health services in the previous two weeks, in hospitalizations or surgeries in the previous year, nor in medicine intake over the previous three days. Among elderly people with hypertension and diabetes, there were no differences in the regular use of health services and medication. The results demonstrate social inequalities in different health indicators, along with equity in access to some health service components.

Source: Cadernos de Saúde Pública

DOI: 10.1590/s0102-311x2011001400008

Authors: Marilisa Berti de Azevedo Barros, Priscila Maria Stolses Bergamo Francisco, Margareth Guimarães Lima, Chester Luiz Galvão César

Institutions: Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Universidade de São Paulo

Language: English

Topic: Health disparities and outcomes

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo, Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Ministério da Saúde