Indicator history

A 2009 quantitative research based on the self-evaluation of Roma population indicates no specific morbidity characterizing this minority group. Roma adults suffer from the same diseases as the majority population - cardio-vascular diseases and nutrition diseases. Roma children suffer especially from respiratory diseases. However, the report points out that this conclusion is based on the self-evaluation of Roma and not objective factors and that this self-evaluation should be read in the cultural context where disease is associated with serious symptoms and death.

Futhermore, the study indicates that inadequate nutrition and its immediate consequences like overweight and obesity, and insufficient physical exercise represent major risk factors for health. [1]

A 2008 qualitative research based on in depth interviews with Roma population, Roma mediators and healthcare personnel concludes that:

"Case studies indicate that Roma families are often affected by diseases caused by poverty. The lack of drinking water, crowded housing, low income are factors that increase the risks for health. Unhealthy eating habits and smoking addiction make victims among both Roma and non-Roma ('gadje'), probably predominantly in poor households." [2]

Sources:

• [1] Sanatate si comunitatea roma: Analiza asupra situatiei din Romania [Health and Roma Community: Analysis of the Situation in Romania], p.71, available at http://www.romanicriss.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=306&Itemid=53 (Accessed on 12.01.2011).
• [2] Gabor Fleck, Cosmina Rughinis, Vino mai aproape. Incluziunea si exclusiunea romilor in societatea romanesca de azi [Come Closer. Roma Inclusion and Exclusion in the Romanian Society Today], p.100, available at http://www.anr.gov.ro/docs/Publicatii/Vino_mai_aproape.pdf (Accessed on 12.01.2012)