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On measuring inequalities in health
1Statistics Canada, Analysis and Development Field, 26-K, R.H. Coats Building, Ottawa, K1A 0T6, Canada. wolfson@statcan.ca
Bulletin of the World Health Organization
|July 5, 2001
Summary
Measuring health inequalities using small area data is flawed. An alternative longitudinal data approach offers a better life course perspective, including non-fatal health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Biostatistics
- Health Economics
Background:
- Murray et al. proposed novel methods for measuring health inequalities.
- Their approach utilized small area data for health inequality assessment.
- Concerns exist regarding the reliability and validity of small area data in this context.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the methodology proposed by Murray et al. for measuring health inequalities.
- To identify limitations in using small area data for health inequality measurement.
- To propose an alternative methodological approach using longitudinal data.
Main Methods:
- Critique of small area data analysis for health inequalities.
- Presentation of a numerical example demonstrating the flaws of small area data.
- Outline of a novel approach utilizing longitudinal data.
Main Results:
- Small area data methods for measuring health inequalities are shown to be statistically flawed.
- A numerical illustration confirms the limitations of small area data.
- A longitudinal data approach is presented as a superior alternative.
Conclusions:
- The use of small area data for measuring health inequalities is problematic and requires re-evaluation.
- A longitudinal data approach offers a more robust framework for assessing health inequalities.
- Future research should incorporate life course perspectives and non-fatal health outcomes in inequality measurement.