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Sex differences in morbidity: A case of discrimination in general practice

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  • Sayer, Geoffrey P.
  • Britt, Helena

Abstract

Several factors influence sex differences in morbidity and general practice 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 Treatment Survey 1990-1991, was conducted using multiple logistic regression to discriminate female from male patient encounters in general practice. This approach considered possible confounding influences of GP and patient characteristics. The results showed there was a tendency for larger differences in the types of problems managed than in the types of reasons for encounter presented. Morbidity related to the reproductive, genitourinary and neurological systems, the blood, and of a psychological 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 complaints and have them managed. The potentially higher rates for males in cardiovascular, digestive, skin and respiratory morbidity not only reflect biological differences, but suggest differences in health reporting, utilisation and illness preventive attitudes.

Suggested Citation

  • Sayer, Geoffrey P. & Britt, Helena, 1996. "Sex differences in morbidity: A case of discrimination in general practice," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 42(2), pages 257-264, January.
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:42:y:1996:i:2:p:257-264
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    Cited by:

    1. Troels Kristensen & Kim Olsen & Henrik Schroll & Janus Thomsen & Anders Halling, 2014. "Association between fee-for-service expenditures and morbidity burden in primary care," The European Journal of Health Economics, Springer;Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gesundheitsökonomie (DGGÖ), vol. 15(6), pages 599-610, July.
    2. Kretowicz Paweł, 2010. "The Influence of Socio-Economic Factors upon Public Health on the Example of Podkarpackie Voivodship," Bulletin of Geography. Socio-economic Series, Sciendo, vol. 14(14), pages 63-78, January.
    3. Kristensen, Troels & Rose Olsen, Kim & Sortsø, Camilla & Ejersted, Charlotte & Thomsen, Janus Laust & Halling, Anders, 2013. "Resources allocation and health care needs in diabetes care in Danish GP clinics," Health Policy, Elsevier, vol. 113(1), pages 206-215.

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