Understanding excess mortality during COVID in Belgium: the influence of health and social factors

Abstract Background This study aims to investigate how pre-existing health status and social background contribute to excess mortality during the COVID-19 crisis in Belgium. Methods The study population consists of 1.4 million adult members of Solidaris, the second largest health insurance fund in Belgium. Pre-existing health status was identified using health care reimbursement data, including medication use. Social characteristics included financial support, migrant background, and household composition. Excess mortality during the COVID-19 crisis was measured as the relative difference betw... Mehr ...