Health status and living conditions in an enlarged EU

The European Union is made up of a diverse group of countries with variations across a multitude of factors: cultural, political, economical and social. Differences are also evident in population health and living conditions, as measured by numerous indicators at both macro and micro levels. Good health can be considered one of the most fundamental resources for social and economic prosperity. While improvements have been seen over the past few decades in both health status and the conditions in which people live and work, there continue to be wide disparities across the Member States, and between population groups within countries. The overall aim of this report is to review trends in health and living conditions in the EU and Candidate Countries (Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey), and describe relevant policy developments targeting health improvements and the reduction of health inequalities. We aim to present an overview of the key issues and not a comprehensive literature review or exhaustive analysis of the topics.