Does Subjective Social Status Predict Health and Change in Health Status Better Than Objective Status?

To examine, among middle-aged individuals, if subjective socioeconomic status (SES) predicts health status and change in health status over time better than objective SES.

Data are from the Whitehall II study, a prospective study of British civil servants. SES data are drawn from Phase 5 (1997-1999) of the study and health data from Phases 5 and 6 (2000-2001). Physical and mental component scores from the Short Form 36, the General Health Questionnaire, and self-rated health were used to assess health status. Multiple linear regressions were used to examine the relationship between SES and health and change in health status.