Background to the Research

• The aim of this research project was to examine differences in socio-economic standing and ill-health between Protestants and Catholics in Northern Ireland.
  

Research Approach

• The methodological approach was a descriptive epidemiological study. Deaths from 1991 to 1995 (inclusive) were used to calculate SMR (under 75 years) at small area level using the 1991 Census population estimates. The SIR were based on the appropriate Census question.
• Regression models were tested with SMR and SIR as dependent variables and a wide range of socio-economic indicators, including income support and family credit up-take, as independent predictors.
  

Main Findings

• Northern Ireland is a very polarised society. More than 60% of the population live in areas which have more than 80% of one religion.
• Areas with a preponderance of Catholics tend to be more deprived.
• Unemployment rates, percentage renting and educational attainment are all worse in Catholic areas.
• However, there is considerable heterogeneity between areas with similar levels of religious affiliation, and the overall pattern varies with the indicator chosen.
• SMRs rise stepwise with increasing percentage of Catholics.
• SIRs increase with increasing polarisation of areas, but this is more marked in those with a predominantly Catholic affiliation.
• Altogether, 46.8% of the variance in SMR and 77.9% of that of SIRs could be explained by socio-economic variables alone.
• Denomination did not have any residual predictive value.

Conclusion

• Policy-makers should continue to periodically monitor for differences between the two communities, including any differences in service accessibility and uptake. Efforts should be directed towards reducing the inequalities in health for all sections of the community.