M Babakhani,
Volume 5, Issue 1 (6-2009)
Abstract
ackground & Objectives: In fact, economic growth, income inequality and health are integrated issues. Economic growth along with increasing income lead to individuals' health promotion and public health and has a positive impact on it, but if there is inappropriate policy to redistribute of these resources, it would have reverse effects. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between economic growth and ecological income inequality indices with health in Iran from 1978 to 2006.
Methods: An ecological study was designed and relevant data were gathered from the statistics center of Iran and Iran Central Bank.
Results: The correlation between Gini coefficient and health indices was statistically significant (P<0.01). The association between economic growth and mortality rate of children under five years index (P<0.01) and with life expectancy (P<0.05) were statistically significant as well.
Conclusions: Economic development and decreasing income inequality should be considered as important determinant factors to have better health in Iranian society.
