Economic, Social and Health Inequalities
Why do some groups in society suffer illness more often than others? How do schooling and income affect future social development? Our research explores how differences in upbringing, economy and other factors affect people's living conditions.
Differences in family relationships, finances and work afford people different opportunities in life. The development and effects of these differences are studied at the Swedish Institute for Social Research (SOFI) and the Centre for Health Equity Studies (CHESS). Sociologists, economists and medical researchers collaborate in studying these issues, from the societal level and global business cycles, to illness and disease mechanisms on an individual level.
The links between different social factors and quality of life are studied using data from the entire life cycle, namely, from birth to death. Since 1968, researchers at the University have been responsible for a large recurring study which surveys the living conditions of Swedes in areas such as health, education, economy and housing. Access to other unique records of data in which individuals and families have been followed for many decades also enables researchers to study links across several generations.
Our work is largely financed by external means, and two research environments in this field have long-term funding from the research council FAS. International exchange is extensive. Positive and negative lessons from social policy and welfare construction in the Nordic countries are useful to other countries. Accordingly, researchers at the University participate in various international comparative studies and have expert assignments in organisations such as the WHO.
Web editor:
Paul Parker
Last updated:
November 23, 2011
Source: Communications Office
