The Fall and Rise of US Inequities in Premature Mortality: 1960–2002
Author Information
Author(s): Nancy Krieger, David H. Rehkopf, Jarvis T. Chen, Pamela D. Waterman, Enrico Marcelli, Malinda Kennedy
Primary Institution: Harvard School of Public Health
Hypothesis
Do health inequities widen or shrink as population health improves?
Conclusion
The study found that health inequities in US premature mortality and infant death rates decreased from 1966 to 1980 but then widened from 1981 to 2002.
Supporting Evidence
- Between 1966 and 1980, socioeconomic and racial inequities in premature mortality shrank.
- From 1981 to 2002, relative health inequities widened while absolute differences stagnated.
- Had all populations experienced the same mortality rates as the highest income quintile, 14% of white premature deaths and 30% of deaths among populations of color would have been prevented.
Takeaway
The study looked at how health differences between rich and poor people changed over time. It found that these differences got smaller for a while, but then got bigger again.
Methodology
The study analyzed US county mortality data from 1960 to 2002, comparing premature mortality and infant death rates by income quintiles.
Potential Biases
Potential inaccuracies in mortality data and census undercounting could affect the results.
Limitations
The study relied on county-level data, which may not accurately reflect individual-level health disparities.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on US populations, distinguishing between white populations and populations of color.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.3,1.4
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website