To what extent the genders gap in health a social issue? An exploratory analysis of the contribution of family and work situations to sex differences in health

A recent study indicated an expansion of disability in France in the 50-65 age group, which went along with an increase in the sex differentials. Above differences in diseases, gender studies suggest a possible detrimental effect of situations related to gender social roles. Specific combinations of work and family loads might impact health and functioning. This paper describes gender-specific family/work situations and their impact on health using the French Gender and Generation Survey. The analyses are based on two health dimensions (mental wellbeing, activity limitations) and various social and family situations.

In the 2005 survey, 20% of men and 19% of women aged 35 to 79 years older report activity limitations and 12% and 26% report poor well-being. Women face more combinations of work and family loads which are expected to be associated with poor health. Generally these situations affect health in both sexes. Accounting for the gender-specific distribution of these situations tends to lower the OR of female over male health risks, but changes are not significant. This exploratory study show situations of vulnerability with a combination of isolation and family/work burden associated with poor health. Meanwhile, more research is needed to better define these situations and measure their link with health.