ABSTRACT

In this chapter we address what is known about the nature and determinants of the health inequalities faced by disabled people. First, we discuss the nature of the association between health and disability. Second, we briefly review what is known about the (poorer) health status of disabled people. Third, in the main part of this chapter, we discuss some of the processes that may link disability and health. Finally, we conclude by identifying the implications of this knowledge for policy and future research. Selected references are included in each section; a fuller set is available in the two reports on which this chapter draws. The first (Emerson et al. 2009) was commissioned in the context of a strategic review of health inequalities in the United Kingdom (UK) (Marmot Review 2010). The second (Emerson et al. 2011b) was commissioned in the context of a strategic review of health inequalities in Europe undertaken by the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) Regional Office for Europe (World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe 2010).