Perceived health in Spain drops to levels not seen since 1987

Recent data from the INE and the Ministry of Health indicate a significant decline in perceived health among the Spanish population. Only 68.3% of people rate their health as good or very good, representing a 5.8-point drop from 2023. This decline brings perceived health levels down to their lowest point in nearly four decades, comparable to 1987.

The decline shows notable disparities across different demographics. Women reported a sharper decrease of 7.1 points compared to a 4-point drop among men. Socioeconomic factors also play a major role; for instance, 74.4% of women in the highest social class report good health, while only 55.9% of those in the lowest class feel the same. Geographically, Galicia, the Canary Islands, and Asturias reported the lowest levels of perceived health.

While subjective, studies suggest that self-perceived health is an independent predictor of mortality. Experts suggest that maintaining physical activity, such as walking 30 minutes daily, remains a fundamental recommendation from organizations like the WHO and CDC to combat cardiovascular disease and improve both physical and mental well-being.