Ukrainian Health and Demography: What Underlies the Mortality Crisis in Ukraine?
On Tuesday, May 10, the Russia Health Working Group hosted Dr. Rekha Menon, Senior Economist in the Health, Nutrition and Population Unit for Europe and Central Asia Region at the World Bank. Dr. Menon presented a World Bank study based on a 2009 household survey, which provided some insights into what underlies the mortality crisis in Ukraine. The study showed that chronic disease prevalence is high in Ukraine – nearly half of the adult population (i.e., those between 18 and 65 years of age) suffers from one or more chronic disease or condition. Furthermore, the unhealthy lifestyle choices that many young Ukrainians make are increasing the risk of premature adult mortality and morbidity. Dr. Menon examined why Ukrainians have not internalized the risks associated with unhealthy lifestyles and chronic illness, what must be done at the official level to re-orient Ukraine's health system in order to detect and treat cases early, and how patient involvement can be increased in treatment decisions.
A Russia Health Working Group Meeting
Featuring:
Dr. Rekha Menon
Senior Economist in Health, Nutrition and Population Unit, Europe and Central Asia Region,
The World Bank
Moderated by:
Judyth Twigg
Director of the Eurasia Health Project, Center for Strategic & International Studies
