Sundhedsulighed

Sundhedsulighed, or health inequality, refers to systematic and avoidable differences in health status, health determinants, or access to health care across population groups. In public health discourse it is distinguished from health inequity by its focus on differences that are avoidable and unfair, arising from social, economic, and environmental conditions as well as policy choices.

The primary determinants of sundhedsulighed are social determinants of health, including income and wealth, education, occupation, housing quality, neighborhood and environment, ethnicity, and migrant status. Differences in health literacy, access to health services, and the distribution of health-promoting resources also contribute. Structural factors such as welfare policy, labor markets, discrimination, and urban planning shape who is more exposed to health risks and who can benefit from preventive care, treatment, and rehabilitation.

Common indicators used to measure sundhedsulighed include life expectancy and healthy life expectancy, infant and maternal mortality, prevalence of chronic diseases, avoidable hospitalizations, and disparities in access to preventive services or timely care. National health registers, population surveys, and health system data are employed to monitor gaps between groups defined by income, education, region, ethnicity, or migration background.

Policy responses aim to reduce avoidable differences through universal health coverage, targeted outreach, and intersectoral action. Approaches include improving access to primary care, enhancing health literacy, addressing living conditions (housing, air quality, food security), and tailoring prevention programs to high-risk groups. Ongoing evaluation and transparent reporting are essential to assess progress and address persistent or emerging inequities.