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Factors explaining the geographical differences in Disability Free Life Expectancy in Spain
J L Gutiérrez-Fisac1, R Gispert, J Solà
1Department of Epidemiology, Ministry of Health, Madrid, Spain. jgutierrez@msc.es
Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health
|May 20, 2000
Summary
Geographical variations in Disability Free Life Expectancy (DFLE) in Spain are linked to education, unemployment, and smoking rates. These factors significantly influence how long people live free from disability.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Economics
Background:
- Disability Free Life Expectancy (DFLE) is a key indicator of population health and quality of life.
- Significant geographical variations in DFLE exist within Spain, necessitating investigation into underlying determinants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the geographical disparities in DFLE at birth (DFLEb) and at age 65 (DFLE65) across Spanish provinces.
- To identify key socioeconomic, health system, and risk factor variables associated with these DFLE variations.
Main Methods:
- Ecological study utilizing data from Spain's 50 provinces.
- Employed Sullivan's method for DFLE calculation, integrating death registry and disability survey data.
- Utilized correlation and multiple linear regression to model the relationship between DFLE and independent variables.
Main Results:
- DFLEb and DFLE65 demonstrated substantial provincial variations.
- Illiteracy rates, unemployment percentages, and smoking prevalence were identified as primary factors influencing geographical DFLE differences.
- Regression models explained approximately 40% of DFLEb variance and 30% of DFLE65 variance.
Conclusions:
- Education, unemployment, and smoking significantly impact geographical variations in DFLE within Spain.
- DFLE metrics are validated as valuable tools for informing and guiding health policy decisions.