The problem of interpreting variations in health status (morbidity and mortality) in Europe

The measurement of health outcomes of populations or individuals is fundamental to understanding their needs, planning health services and possibly thereby reducing mortality. However, it is important to remember that many factors other than medical care may influence health status. Such factors include sociodemography (e.g. age, gender, social class influencing access to resources), environment, case severity, comorbidity and clinical management.