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Wealth Gradient in Non-Communicable Diseases and Financial Risk: Evidence from Panel Data in India

Author

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  • Chaudhary, Divya

  • Jain, Anuradha

Abstract

This study examines the evolving wealth gradient in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their financial consequences in the context of India’s ongoing demographic and epidemiological transition. We construct a panel dataset of individuals aged 50 years and above using Wave 2 and Wave 3 of the WHO Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) to analyse shifts in NCD burden and multimorbidity across wealth quintiles and their association with outpatient out-of-pocket (OOP) expenditure and catastrophic health expenditure (CHE). Our findings reveal that NCD burden and multimorbidity have become increasingly concentrated among poorer households in Wave 3 compared to Wave 2. However, increases in outpatient OOP spending and the risk of CHE remain disproportionately concentrated among poorer groups. Although the epidemiological transition is increasing NCD prevalence across socioeconomic groups, the financial burden remains uneven, highlighting the need to strengthen financial protection for ageing and vulnerable populations.

Suggested Citation

  • Chaudhary, Divya & Jain, Anuradha, 2026. "Wealth Gradient in Non-Communicable Diseases and Financial Risk: Evidence from Panel Data in India," Revista Galega de Economía, University of Santiago de Compostela. Faculty of Economics and Business., vol. 35(2), pages 1-22.
    • Handle: RePEc:sdo:regaec:v:35:y:2026:i:2_5
    DOI: 10.15304/rge.35.2.11266
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • I14 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health and Inequality
    • I13 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Insurance, Public and Private
    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health
    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution

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