Regional variations in and correlates of disability-free life expectancy among older adults in China.
BACKGROUND
Considerable socioeconomic and health inequalities have been reported in China. However, because of a lack of appropriate data, limited research has been conducted on variations in disability-free life expectancy (DFLE) among older adults. This study aimed to use the most up-to-date disability survey data to explore geographical variations in DFLE at age 60 in China and to identify the socioeconomic and health care factors that partially account for these variations.


METHODS
This study used 2006 mortality data extrapolated from the 1990 and 2000 Census and disability data from a national disability survey conducted in 2006. Disability was performance based and was diagnosed by trained physicians. DFLE was calculated by region using the Sullivan method. Multiple linear regression models by gender were conducted to explore correlates of DFLE.


RESULTS
DFLE at age 60 varied widely by region, from 11.2 to 20.8 years in 2006. Per capita gross domestic product, proportion of urban residents, and access to health care were the primary factors associated with geographical variations in DFLE.


CONCLUSIONS
The pattern of differences in DFLE by region mirrors the pattern of regional economic development in China. Countermeasures to decrease regional differences in DFLE include accelerating regional economic development and improving health care distribution.
Liu
Jufen
J
Institute of Population Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
Chen
Gong
G
Chi
Iris
I
Wu
Jilei
J
Pei
Lijun
L
Song
Xinming
X
Zhang
Lei
L
Pang
Lihua
L
Han
Youli
Y
Zheng
Xiaoying
X
D019352:Censuses; D002681:China; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D005260:Female; D005843:Geography; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D054624:Health Status Disparities; D006801:Humans; D008017:Life Expectancy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012923:Social Class