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. 1999 Apr;89(4):569–572. doi: 10.2105/ajph.89.4.569

Socioeconomic status and morbidity in the last years of life.

Y Liao 1, D L McGee 1, J S Kaufman 1, G Cao 1, R S Cooper 1
PMCID: PMC1508870  PMID: 10191805

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated the effect of socioeconomic status, as characterized by level of education, on morbidity and disability in the last years of life. METHODS: The analysis used data from the National Health Interview Survey (1986-1990), with mortality follow-up through December 1991. RESULTS: Among 10,932 decedents 50 years or older at baseline interview, educational attainment was inversely associated with long-term limitation of activity, number of chronic conditions, number of bed days, and days of short hospital stay during the year preceding the interview. CONCLUSIONS: Decedents with higher socioeconomic status experienced lower morbidity and disability and better quality of life even in their last years of life.

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Selected References

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