[Maternal and child health in the Fourth World. Initial results of a socio-epidemiological survey].

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a qualitative survey of young mothers in deprived conditions, which was conducted as a part of a broader socio-epidemiological research on health inequalities amongst mother and child. This survey reveals that this group is not solely distinguished in terms of socio-economic categories. Cultural dimensions play also an important role in explaining their health related behaviour. The survey was aimed at determining the logic and principles of coping with health and sickness. The specific attitudes and behaviour of the survey group was described through fourteen dimensions (definition and perception of health, prevention, relations with professionals, networks used...). The results show that any approach of the health problems of this group has to take its specific health culture into account and that this approach is inevitable in any effort to promote health and reduce social inequalities for the so-called "Fourth World".