Vienna Yearbook of Population Research 2010, pp. 237-259, 2010/12/22
This study discusses the relationship between education and health based on a qualitative research. First, a review of the literature addressing the links between education and health is presented. Then, the findings from the literature are related to the results of an analysis of 31 interviews with medical experts in Austria. It is demonstrated which resources and abilities are provided by education and how these factors influence the individual health behaviour and health situation. The results suggest that men and women with less material, psychological and social resources are often considered to be found among lower educated individuals and are described as acting and being less healthy. Higher educated men and women show a higher interest in health issues and have a better understanding of their state of health. They seek for more qualitative information than lower educated individuals which helps them interpret and understand health issues in a more efficient way.
