An intersectional analysis providing more precise information on inequities in self-rated health

Abstract Background Intersectionality theory combined with an analysis of individual heterogeneity and discriminatory accuracy (AIHDA) can facilitate our understanding health disparities. This enables the application proportionate universalism for resource allocation in public health. Analyzing self-rated (SRH) Sweden, we show how intersectional perspective allows a detailed mapping inequalities while avoiding simplification stigmatization based on indiscriminate interpretations differences between group averages. Methods We analyzed participants ( n =133,244) 14 consecutive National Public Health Surveys conducted Sweden 2004–2016 2018. Applying AIHDA, investigated risk bad SRH across 12 strata defined by gender, income migration status, adjusted age survey year. calculated odds ratios (with 95% confidence intervals) to evaluate between-strata differences, using native-born men high as comparison reference. area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AU-ROC) identifying individuals according their status. Results The showed clear average SRH. For instance, was seven times higher immigrated women low (OR 7.00 [95% CI 6.14–7.97]) than native income. However, small (AU-ROC=0.67). Conclusions AIHDA approach provides more precise information existence (or absence) inequalities, guide interventions principle universalism. found this study warrants universal rather exclusively focused