Gender differences in the effects of economic inequality on mental conditions: a multivariate meta-analysis of Gini index and relative income position in high-income OECD countries - Scorecard - MDSpire
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Sex-Based Variations in the Impact of Economic Disparities on Mental Health: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Gini Coefficient and Relative Income Status in Affluent OECD Nations

  • By

  • Olivia Kalinowski

  • Wulf Rössler

  • September 3, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: Sex-Based Variations in the Impact of Economic Disparities on Mental Health: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of Gini Coefficient and Relative Income Status in Affluent OECD Nations

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionMental Health Conditions
Key MechanismsEconomic inequality and gender disparities influence mental health outcomes, particularly depression.
Target PopulationIndividuals in affluent OECD nations, with a focus on gender differences.
Care SettingMental health research and policy development.

Key Highlights

  • Women face greater exposure to economic disadvantage and increased vulnerability to mental health effects.
  • Relative poverty is more prevalent among women (20.5%) compared to men (18.3%).
  • Lower income is significantly associated with poorer mental health outcomes.
  • Gender moderates the effects of income on depression, with larger effects observed in women.
  • The Gini index was not associated with mental health outcomes overall.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Consider gender as a primary analytic dimension in mental health assessments.

Management

  • Implement gender-sensitive approaches in addressing socioeconomic determinants of mental health.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Monitor the impact of economic disparities on mental health outcomes across genders.

Risks

  • Recognize the increased risk of mental health issues in women due to economic inequalities.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Individuals experiencing economic disadvantage in high-income OECD countries.

Addressing economic inequalities may improve mental health outcomes, particularly for women.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Incorporate gender-sensitive frameworks in mental health research and policy.
  • Utilize multivariate analyses to understand the impact of economic disparities on mental health.

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