American Adults Are in Poorer Health Because They Were in Poorer Health as Children
We show that the origins of poorer adult health among older Americans compared to the English trace right back into the childhood years – the American middle and old-age population report higher rates of specific childhood health conditions than their English counterparts. The transmission into poor health in mid life and older ages of these higher rates of childhood illnesses also appears to be higher in America compared to England. Both factors contribute to higher rates of adult illness in the United States compared to England although even in combination they do not explain the full extent of the country difference in late-life health outcomes.
Could be a reporting bias, issue of diagnosis 50 years, exposure, or various other things 50 ago. Hard to have an accurate retrospective qualitative study.
Is it lifestyle differences? The Brits are more likely to move to London, walk a lot, and not eat junk food? Americans are more likely to make another trip to McDonalds?
I’ve read articles that go as far as to suggest differences in prenatal care and the mother’s health status while pregnant has an impact on health status later in life.
Interesting. But I’m not sure what the public policy implications are.