On measuring inequalities in health.
In a recent series of papers, Murray et al. have put forward a number of important ideas regarding the measurement of inequalities in health. In this paper we agree with some of these ideas but draw attention to one key aspect of their approach--measuring inequalities on the basis of small area data--which is flawed. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the problem. An alternative approach drawing on longitudinal data is outlined, which preserves and enhances the most desirable aspects of their proposal. These include the use of a life course perspective, and the consideration of non-fatal health outcomes as well as the more usual information on mortality patterns.
Wolfson
M
M
Statistics Canada, Analysis and Development Field, 26-K, R.H. Coats Building, Ottawa, K1A 0T6, Canada. wolfson@statcan.ca
Rowe
G
G
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D015331:Cohort Studies; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000379:methods*; D006305:Health Status Indicators; D006801:Humans; D015993:Life Tables; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D009026:Mortality; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D017062:Small-Area Analysis; D012923:Social Class; D012935:Social Justice / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors