SEX-DIFFERENCES IN MORBIDITY - A CASE OF DISCRIMINATION IN GENERAL-PRACTICE

Several factors influence sex differences in morbidity and general pra ctice utilization rates. These factors are of a biological, social and behavioural nature and have differential effects on varying morbidity types. Secondary analysis of data from the Australian Morbidity and T reatment Survey 1990-91, was conducted using multiple logistic regress ion to discriminate female from male patient encounters in general pra ctice. This approach considered possible confounding influences of GP and patient characteristics. The results showed there was a tendency f or larger differences in the types of problems managed than in the typ es of reasons for encounter presented. Morbidity related to the reprod uctive, genitourinary and neurological systems, the blood, and of a ps ychological and social nature were significant contributors to Female poor health and service utilization. Females were also more likely to present with digestive, cardiovascular and respiratory problems, while males were more likely to have digestive and cardiovascular problems managed. Furthermore, males were more likely to present skin complaint s and have them managed. The potentially higher rates for males in car diovascular, digestive, skin and respiratory morbidity not only reflec t biological differences, but suggest differences in health reporting, utilisation and illness preventive attitudes.