Reduction of social inequalities in life expectancy in a city of Southeastern Brazil
2011

Reducing Social Inequalities in Life Expectancy in Campinas, Brazil

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ana Paula Belon, Marilisa Barros

Primary Institution: State University of Campinas

Hypothesis

The study aims to evaluate inequalities in life expectancy by socioeconomic strata in Campinas, Brazil.

Conclusion

Social inequalities in life expectancy have reduced in Campinas, indicating improvements in living and health conditions due to public policies.

Supporting Evidence

  • Life expectancy at birth for men and women in poor areas was significantly lower than in affluent areas in 2000.
  • Between 2000 and 2005, life expectancy increased more in poorer areas than in prosperous ones.
  • The gap in life expectancy between high and low socioeconomic strata decreased from 6.9 years to 4.3 years for males and from 5.5 years to 3.6 years for females.

Takeaway

In Campinas, people in poorer areas are living longer now than before, which is a good sign that things are getting better for them.

Methodology

The study used an ecological approach to classify health care units into socioeconomic strata and constructed life tables by sex for 2000 and 2005.

Potential Biases

The use of aggregate data may mask individual-level variations and lead to ecological fallacy.

Limitations

The study used secondary data, which may not reflect individual situations within socioeconomic strata.

Participant Demographics

The study focused on the population of Campinas, Brazil, with a total population of approximately 1 million in 2000.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1475-9276-10-36

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