Gender Gap in Self-Rated Health: A Cohort Perspective in Eastern European Countries

Gender differences in self-rated health among older adults in the Chinese workforce

Introduction

This study investigates gender-based disparities in self-rated health among older individuals in the Chinese workforce, utilizing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Understanding these health gaps is crucial for crafting effective health policies and interventions in light of the rapidly aging population.

Materials and methods

Data from the 2020 CHARLS survey, comprising Chinese individuals aged 45 and above, were analyzed, focusing on older adults actively employed. Descriptive statistics and regression analyses examined gender discrepancies in self-rated health, considering diverse sociodemographic, economic, and health-related factors.

Results

Gender disparities in demographics, work environments, and self-rated health were observable among male and female participants. Older males tended to have higher rates of smoking and alcohol consumption, coupled with lower incomes. In contrast, females exhibited healthier behaviors influenced by access to healthcare and lifestyle modifications. For males, economic stability and moderate alcohol use positively influenced self-rated health, while females benefited from healthcare coverage and healthy lifestyle choices. Tailored gender-specific health interventions should prioritize these unique factors to enhance overall well-being.

Discussion

Discussions highlighted the impact of demographic variables, including age, marital status, social security, and employment conditions, on self-rated health. The study emphasized the crucial role of marital relationships in the health outcomes of older adult workers.

Conclusion

This study underscores the pivotal role of gender in self-rated health variations and provides essential insights for targeted interventions. By considering both quantitative and qualitative determinants of well-being, focused health policies can effectively address the health and well-being of aging populations, especially older adult workers.

Social transition, socioeconomic status and self-rated health in China: evidence from a national cross-sectional survey (CGSS)

Background

Social transition is one of the multi-level mechanisms that influence health disparities. However, it has received less attention as one of the non-traditional social determinants of health. A few studies have examined China's social transition and its impact on health inequality in self-rated health (SRH). Therefore, this study explores the impact of China's market-oriented reforms-social transition and socioeconomic status (SES)-on residents' SRH.

Methods

Using the cross-sectional data from the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS) in 2017, we analyzed the effects of social transition and SES on the SRH of Chinese residents using the RIF (Recentered influence function) method. The RIF decomposition method investigated health differences among different populations and their determinants.

Results

Social transition and SES have significant positive effects on the SRH of Chinese residents. The correlation between SES and the SRH of Chinese residents is moderated by social transition, implying that social transition can weaken the correlation between SES and the SRH of Chinese residents. The impacts of SES and social transition on SRH vary across populations.

Conclusion

Promoting social transition and favoring disadvantaged groups with more resources are urgently needed to promote equitable health outcomes.

Exploring the Influence of Social Class and Sex on Self-Reported Health: Insights from a Representative Population-Based Study

This study investigates the intricate interplay between social class, sex, and self-reported health (SRH) using data from the European Health Survey of Spain 2020 (EESE2020). Employing a cross-sectional design and a representative sample of 22,072 individuals, the analysis explores the persistence of disparities after adjusting for covariates, focusing on health-related variables. The study employs logistic regression models and directed acyclic graphs (DAGs) to delineate the direct effects of social class and sex on SRH, identifying a minimum adjustment set to control for confounding variables. Results reveal a gradient effect of social class on SRH, emphasizing the enduring impact of socioeconomic factors. Sex-based disparities in SRH diminish after considering additional health-related variables, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach. DAGs serve as transparent tools in disentangling complex relationships, guiding the identification of essential covariates. The study concludes that addressing health inequalities requires comprehensive strategies considering both individual health behaviours and socio-economic contexts. While recognizing limitations, such as the cross-sectional design, the findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of health disparities, informing evidence-based interventions and policies for a more equitable healthcare system.