Determinants and indicators of health and well-being: Tools for educating society

Author(s): Sarkella, J.

Journal/Book: Soc Indic Res. 1997; 40: Spuiboulevard 50, PO Box 17, 3300 AA Dordrecht, Netherlands. Kluwer Academic Publ. 159-178.

Abstract: Over the last 50 years, industrial countries have seen dramatic increases in the health and well being of their citizens. Life expectancy, infant and maternal mortality, key measures of population health, have shown continuous improvements since the turn of the century. Yet changes in the economic and social fabric such as increasing income disparity, psychological stressors such as high unemployment levels, and health care reforms with reductions in service provisions that are currently being experienced in industrialized countries, are threatening the sustainability of human health and well-being. With government resources dwindling for health services, expectations are increasing for communities to take charge of their own health and well-being. This paper presents some of the issues and dilemmas surrounding the sustainability of human health, and identifies the importance of developing educated and mobilized communities. By highlighting examples from the Community Health and Well-being in Southwestern Ontario: A Resource for Planning report, it suggests that the provision of key local health and well-being indicators is an important first step to community education and mobilization.

Note: Article Vingilis E, Univ Western Ontario, Hlth Sci Ctr, Fac Med, Populat & Community Hlth Unit, RM H110, London, ON N6A 5C1, CANADA

Keyword(s): SOCIOECONOMIC-STATUS

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