ABSTRACT
Cluster analysis was used to identify relatively homogenous groups within Dhaka slum households, who report similar patterns of livelihood. Four groups emerged which may be summarised as "self employed'', "casual unskilled", "female headed" and "casual skilled" households on the basis of their socio-economic, demographic and occupational characteristics. The "self employed" and "casual skilled" groups were better off in terms of income, assets and creditworthiness. The greatest burden of adult illness fell in the "casual unskilled" and "female headed" households. In any month, 30-40 percent of these households reported loss of labour days due to illness. On average, about four days per month were lost in casual unskilled households and over seven days per month in female headed households, on account of illness. The income lost due to illness far exceeded household expenditure to treat the illness. Programmes which mitigate the adverse effects of adult ill health on household economies might help break the cycle of ill health and poverty which characterise many urban slum households, and could help reduce inequalities between livelihood groups.
