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What (or who) causes health inequalities: Theories, evidence and implications?

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  • McCartney, Gerry
  • Collins, Chik
  • Mackenzie, Mhairi

Abstract

Health inequalities are the unjust differences in health between groups of people occupying different positions in society. Since the Black Report of 1980 there has been considerable effort to understand what causes them, so as to be able to identify actions to reduce them. This paper revisits and updates the proposed theories, evaluates the evidence in light of subsequent epidemiological research, and underlines the political and policy ramifications.

Suggested Citation

  • McCartney, Gerry & Collins, Chik & Mackenzie, Mhairi, 2013. "What (or who) causes health inequalities: Theories, evidence and implications?," Health Policy, Elsevier, vol. 113(3), pages 221-227.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:hepoli:v:113:y:2013:i:3:p:221-227
    DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2013.05.021
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    References listed on IDEAS

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