TRENDS IN SELF-RATED HEALTH IN FINLAND 1972-1992

Background. Self-rated health is a useful indicator of the population' s health. Yet follow-up studies on perceived health trends are scarce. The aim of this paper is to assess perceived health trends in Finland between 1972 and 1992. Methods. Five cross-sectional studies were don e in two areas in eastern Finland every 5th year since 1972 and in a t hird area in southwestern Finland since 1982. The total number of resp ondents was 33,962. The respondents filled in a questionnaire, followe d by a health examination. The subjects were categorized by age, educa tion, and household income. Results. In 1972, one-third of the populat ion reported good health, whereas in 1992 the rates were 50 and 60% fo r men and women, respectively. Younger persons reported better general health than older persons. High education and high household income w ere undisputed indicators of good health. Among men, their importance as predictors of good health diminished during the 20 years. Conclusio ns. Finnish people today not only live longer but also feel healthier. In order to achieve good health for all population groups we need con tinual efforts to diminish the socioeconomic disparities. (C) 1996 Aca demic Press, Inc.