Evaluating Socio-Economic Variations in the Prevalence of Chronic Diseases: Some Evidence from Romania

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore whether socio-economic variations exist in the prevalence of chronic diseases in Romania. To evaluate the level of variations, this article reports a European Quality of Life Survey (EQLS) conducted in Romania. Using logistic regression analysis, results suggest that while some weaker and more vulnerable socio-economic groups are significantly more likely to report a chronic illness or disability (e.g. women, older people, retired or unable to work), others are not (e.g. people with low educational level, living in rural areas or in poorer regions). Showing a disproportionately prevalence of chronic conditions amongst socio-economic groups, the study emphasises the need for a policy that takes into account socio-economic variations when addressing the impact of chronic diseases.