The Political and Social Contexts of Health

In this study sponsored by the European Commission, editor Navarro (health and public policy, sociology and policy studies, The Johns Hopkins U., and social science, Pompeu Fabra U.) and contributors examine how broad political and social traditions have affected the delivery of health care in western countries. They begin by comparing political identity to mortality rates from 1950 to 1998, and then offer case studies from various countries, including the politics of social policies in the UK, inequalities of care in Italy, regional differences in life expectancy in Germany, power relations and premature mortality in Spain, and social reasons for the decline in infant mortality in Sweden. They conclude that societies that provide health for all members as a matter of right and entitlement enjoy improved health and a better quality of life. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)