riskiryhmäläiset

Riskiryhmäläiset is a Finnish term used to describe populations that are considered more vulnerable to adverse health outcomes from certain diseases or hazards. The concept is used by public health authorities and media to guide protective measures, communications, and resource allocation during outbreaks or health campaigns. The exact groups designated as riskiryhmäläiset depend on the disease in question, the local context, and current scientific understanding, and the list can be revised as new information emerges.

Commonly included groups are older adults and people with chronic medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lung or kidney diseases, or cancer. Immunocompromised individuals, including those undergoing certain treatments or with immune disorders, are often classified as riskiryhmäläiset. Pregnant women are sometimes identified as a high-risk group for specific infections. In some contexts, obesity or other factors may also be considered risk-enhancing. The composition of risk groups can differ between countries and health authorities and may change with different health threats.

In practice, identifying riskiryhmäläiset informs vaccination prioritization, recommendations on protective measures, and targeted outreach or support for those most likely to experience severe illness. It is an epidemiological concept rather than a rigid label for any individual, and individuals’ risk profiles can vary across diseases and over time.