In the shadow of the welfare society ill-health and symptoms, psychological exposure and lifestyle habits among social security recipients: a national survey study
2008

Health and Lifestyle of Social Security Recipients in Sweden

Sample size: 20100 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Amir Baigi, Eva-Carin Lindgren, Bengt Starrin, Håkan Bergh

Primary Institution: Halland County Council, Göteborg University, Karlstad University, Lillehammer University College

Hypothesis

What is the prevalence and impact of illness factors and symptoms among social security recipients compared to non-recipients in Sweden?

Conclusion

Social security recipients in Sweden have significantly poorer health and more negative lifestyle habits compared to non-recipients.

Supporting Evidence

  • Social security recipients reported higher levels of psychological ill-health.
  • They experienced more sleep disturbances and anxiety compared to non-recipients.
  • Social security recipients had worse dental health and were less physically active.
  • They were more likely to smoke and have a poorer diet.

Takeaway

People who receive social security in Sweden are often less healthy and have worse habits than those who don't get this help.

Methodology

A national survey was conducted with a simple random sample of 20,100 individuals aged 18-84, using multiple logistic regression for analysis.

Potential Biases

Social security recipients may be less willing to participate in studies, leading to underrepresentation.

Limitations

The response rate was 61%, and the study may not fully represent social security recipients due to potential reluctance to participate.

Participant Demographics

The study included individuals aged 18-84, with a notable proportion of social security recipients having a foreign background.

Statistical Information

Confidence Interval

95% CI

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1751-0759-2-15

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