The Health Gap

October 15, 2015

Renowned epidemiologist Marmot (epidemiology & public health, Univ. Coll. London; president, World Medical Assn.; Status Syndrome) aims to "share knowledge on how the working of society impacts on health and the unjust distribution of health and what we can do about it." The relationship between inequalities in social status and inequalities in health is described in detail through the use of the findings of the World Health Organization's Commission on Social Determinants of Health and numerous other studies. Using the phrase "social gradient in health" for this relationship, the author creates a strong case for policy changes that address human needs for autonomy, empowerment, and freedom in order to improve the well-being of people globally who are living in vulnerable and disadvantaged circumstances. Influences on health that are discussed include India's caste system, gender inequity, the need to combat gangs, unreasonable debt repayments, etc. VERDICT Recommended for public and academic libraries with studies in public health, medicine, and social justice.--Karen Venturella, Union Cty. Coll. Libs, Cranford, NJ

Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2015
British epidemiologist Marmot (Status Syndrome, 2007), president of the World Medical Association, convincingly details how socioeconomic inequities lead to health inequities. People in poorer countries are sicker and die younger. Today, 20 years is the gap in life expectancy between women in India and in the U.S. Marmot offers many thought-provoking ideas. For example, when the World Bank interviewed people in 47 countries about what relief of poverty meant to them, they were told: opportunity, empowerment, and security. (Those three words sound like a good goal for everyone.) To improve their citizens' well-being, leaders need to talk more about jobs than about such diseases as malaria and AIDS. Unemployment is also hazardous to health because it puts people at increased risk of depression and suicide. Marmot passionately argues for people everywhere to promote a more just distribution of health. To reduce the inequities in power, money, and resources that lead to inequities in physical and mental conditions, he implores, Do something. Like a good courtroom attorney, Marmot builds a strong case and calls for action.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)