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Published in: International Journal of Public Health 2/2018

01-03-2018 | Original Article

Self-rated health in Europe and its determinants: Does generation matter?

Authors: Isabel Aguilar-Palacio, Ana Isabel Gil-Lacruz, Raquel Sánchez-Recio, Mª José Rabanaque

Published in: International Journal of Public Health | Issue 2/2018

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Abstract

Objectives

To analyse the influence of micro- and macro-factors on self-rated health, and the role of generation on this relationship.

Methods

Cross-sectional study using data from European Health Interview Surveys from 14 European countries. Individuals were divided into four generations (“silent generation”, “baby boomers”, and “generation X” and “Y”). We conducted multilevel analyses for each generation to study the influence of individual and national explanatory variables on self-rated health.

Results

Age showed an exponential effect in older generations. Education and employment presented the strongest association with low self-rated health, especially in “baby boomers” and women (low education: OR 3.5; 95% CI 3.2–3.9). Tobacco showed a negative effect in younger generations. Overweight and low physical activity were negatively associated with self-rated health regardless of generation. Countries from the Eastern welfare system showed the highest risk of low self-rated health and this association was higher in men for “silent generation” (OR 4.7; 95% CI 3.0–7.6).

Conclusions

The influence of individual and national factors on self-rated health varies regarding generation. The target generation and the demographic structure of a country should be taken into account to develop more accurate health policies.
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Metadata
Title
Self-rated health in Europe and its determinants: Does generation matter?
Authors
Isabel Aguilar-Palacio
Ana Isabel Gil-Lacruz
Raquel Sánchez-Recio
Mª José Rabanaque
Publication date
01-03-2018
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
International Journal of Public Health / Issue 2/2018
Print ISSN: 1661-8556
Electronic ISSN: 1661-8564
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00038-018-1079-5

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