Las políticas para disminuir las desigualdades en salud

Abstract

This paper reviews policies to reduce social inequalities in health and presents some examples. Previously it presents the model on social determinants of health inequalities. The model described on the determinants of health inequalities is used by the Commission on Social Determinants of Health of the World Health Organisation that contains three main elements: the socio-economic and political context, socioeconomic status and intermediary factors. It describes 10 principles to keep in mind to launch interventions aimed at reducing inequalities in health and describes various policies depending on different «entry points» considered in the conceptual model. Finally we present two examples: The Public Health Policy of Sweden and the programme «Barrio Adentro» in Venezuela. © 2008 Sociedad Española de Salud Pública y Administración Sanitaria.