Gender Differences in Migrant Workers Health in China

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the distribution and differences in the health status of migrant workers in China by gender and age. In addition, it investigated the causes of health inequalities among them. Methods: This paper analyzes the differences in health status across age groups for migrant workers of different genders based on the data from the China Migrant Dynamic Survey in 2018. It also empirically assesses how education level and health insurance impact gender-related health inequalities. Results: The results suggest that female migrant workers in China have significantly lower health levels than males. Furthermore, these differences in health are exacerbated with age. This disparity may be attributed to lower participation in social insurance participation and less educational attainment among female migrant workers than their male counterparts. Conclusion: The government should take effective practical measures to increase the social insurance participation rate of female migrant workers. Moreover, investing in female education to reduce health inequality among migrant workers is essential.

Keywords: China; education level; gender differences; health inequalities; health insurance; migrant workers.