In 2015, nearly 8 in 10 inhabitants in Iceland estimated their status of health to be good or very good, 76%. Around 73% of women considered their health to be good compared with approximately 80% of men. This is lower than it was in 2004, the first time the survey was conducted, when 79% reported being in good health, 75% of women and 82% of men. The proportion in good health peaked in 81% in 2008, 79% among women and over 82% among men.
About third (30%) of inhabitants in Iceland reported having long-term health problems in 2015, 35% of women and 25% of men. This is somewhat higher than it was in 2004 when just above a quarter (28%) reported to be dealing with long-term health problems, 31% of women and 23% of men. The proportion of people living with long-term health problems was the lowest in 2007, at about 18% overall, 21% among women and 15% among men.
Generally in good health but a high proportion with severe limitations
The most recent comparative data on health in Europe reveals that in Iceland the proportion of the population that was in good health was relatively high in 2014. The share of men in good health was the second highest in Europe and the share of healthy women the ninth highest. Long-term health problems were not common in Iceland compared with other European countries and the same goes for health problems that limit individuals somewhat or severely in usual activities. However, if the focus is put exclusively on the group that reports living with severe health-related limitations in usual activities the share among Icelandic women turns out to be the second highest in Europe and the share among men the seventh highest.
Statistics Iceland has published an issue in the Statistical Series about economy and health based on the European Survey on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC).
Social Indicators: Health and Economy 2015 - Statistical Series