A 10-year trend in income disparity of cardiovascular health among older adults in South Korea

Abstract

Objectives: Although cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk has lessened in Korea, it is unclear whether older adults in all socioeconomic strata have benefited equally. This study explored trends in income disparities in CVD risk among older adults in Korea. Methods: This was a secondary analysis of Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data (2008–2017), targeting 14,836 older adults (≥65 years). Socioeconomic position, defined as income and use of welfare benefits, was the primary indicator. The outcome was binary for predicted CVD risk ( 0.19, RII > 7). Conclusions: These results may inform and improve policies regarding income disparity reduction and cardiovascular health.

Keywords

• Korea
• Income
• Trends
• Cardiovascular health
• Older adults