Inequalities in self-reported physical health in the United States, 1993-1999.
This study investigated inequalities in physically healthy days in the United States during 1993-1999, by socioeconomic and demographic group. The generalized entropy GE(2) and other indices were computed using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey, 1993-1999. The results indicate that GE(2) for the US population increased by 17% during 1993-1999. Low-to-middle income groups had the highest increases in inequalities during this time (51-66%), whereas the least educated, Asian/Pacific Islanders, American Indians/Alaska Natives, the oldest, the youngest, and the richest had the lowest (-14-10%). In 1999, inequalities ranged from 0.0153 (income>or=$50 000) to 0.112 (income<$10 000). Inequalities have increased during 1993-1999 and vary substantially across groups. The American Indians/Alaska Natives experienced the highest inequalities whereas Asians/Pacific-Islanders exhibited the lowest inequalities. More attention should be given to within-group inequalities.
Sehili
Saloua
S
US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), USA. ssehili@worldbank.org
Elbasha
Elamin H
EH
Moriarty
David G
DG
Zack
Matthew M
MM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D040343:Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System; D003710:Demography; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007182:Income; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015233:Models, Statistical; D044469:Racial Groups; D012737:Sex Factors; D012923:Social Class; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014481:United States