Health crisis in Denmark: risk of poverty increases medication errors!

Health crisis in Denmark: risk of poverty increases medication errors!

A recent study by Amanda Paust and co-authors, published in the journal Plos Medicine, highlights alarming trends in medication supply, particularly among socially disadvantaged groups. The study is based on a national study in Denmark with 177,495 participants and is dedicated to the issue of potentially inappropriate medications (PIM) and their health consequences. The results show that despite a universal healthcare system, significant social inequalities exist.

The study found a high potential error rate in medication care, with 14.7% of participants exposed to PIM. Of particular concern is under-provision (START-PIM), which occurred most frequently at 12.5%. In contrast, an oversupply of 3.1% was found. The data illustrates how strongly the social situation influences the quality of treatment. Those with less wealth have an 85% higher risk of PIM compared to the wealthiest group, while lower income increases the risk by 78% and low education levels by 66%.

Social determinants of health

These results are consistent with findings from the Robert Koch Institute, which analyzes social determinants of health and health inequalities. The institute deals with a variety of aspects, including social inequality, the world of work, migration and regional differences. The data are based on comprehensive health monitoring and epidemiological analyzes and show that social inequalities in health and disease are a universal phenomenon that depends on various characteristics of social differentiation.

In addition, it is clear that people with low social support or limited social networks, such as immigrants and the socially disadvantaged, are at increased risk of polypharmacy. This form of medication can potentially cause more harm than good, something that needs to be addressed urgently.

Policy measures and recommendations

The study recommends concrete policy measures to reduce inappropriate medication use and improve health equity. The need to address health inequalities is further highlighted by the variation in disease risk in middle and older adulthood, which is shaped by early childhood influences.

In summary, current research not only highlights the pressing problems in drug supply, but also calls for a far-reaching debate about social mobility, income and access to education in order to sustainably promote the health of the population. In view of the findings presented, it is essential to improve the health conditions for disadvantaged groups. It can already be seen that social inequality has a significant impact on the health and well-being of many people.

For further information on the social determinants of health, we refer to the Robert Koch Institute and the specific topic of social inequalities in health Bioeg.

The extensive analysis of the health challenges that affect socially disadvantaged groups points to the urgent need for action to improve health care. The results of the study by Kleine Zeitung are a strong plea for comprehensive interventions and political measures.