Are patterns of educational inequalities identical or different when mortality and morbidity rates are compared?

Jitka Rychtarikova, Charles University, Prague

The strength of the statistical correlation between mortality and morbidity began to weaken in countries experiencing the highest life expectancies. The chronic illness began to be an integral and unpleasant part of the lives of many people and these diseases can or do not need interfere with a person's independence, and they may not even be the primary cause of death. A life style measured by educational attainment can play a decisive role in modifying health and death inequalities. The investigation identifies opportunities for a possible reduction of health inequalities regarding a life style and is also considering the future needs of a health care system when a share of more educated people in a population is growing. The case study of the Czech Republic comparing mortality and morbidity patterns according to educational attainment will be provided. The data come from national vital statistics, census and two surveys (SILC and GGS) carried out in 2005. Health indicators deal with self-perceived health, chronic morbidity and limitations on everyday activities. The total life expectancy by education will be decomposed according to different health statuses. The following hypotheses will be investigated: Are patterns of educational inequalities identical or different when comparing mortality and health status? Are gradients different between men and women?