Abstract
This study examines COVID-19 mortality inequalities among 171 countries, analyzing the impact of obesity, age, and income on mortality. We employ three temporal snapshots of COVID-19 attributable deaths: cumulative deaths until December 1, 2020, August 1, 2021, and February 1, 2022. Utilizing innovative metrics, such as the COVID-19 Mortality Inequality Curve, the COVID-19 Mortality Inequality Index (CMII), and the Theil Index, we offer comprehensive insights into the distribution of COVID-19-related deaths across different demographics and socioeconomic groups. Our findings reveal those countries with higher obesity rates and a larger elderly population face significantly higher COVID-19 mortality rates. Contrary to initial expectations, income-based disparities were relatively low at the outset and remained stable throughout the study period, underscoring the pandemic's complex and multifaceted nature. Obesity is identified as a crucial determinant of COVID-19 mortality inequalities. The results highlight the critical need for promoting and ensuring equitable vaccine distribution, particularly in regions vulnerable due to high rates of obesity and significant elderly populations. The study challenges previous assumptions about the role of income in influencing COVID-19 mortality outcomes at the international level, emphasizing the need for targeted public health interventions.
JEL Classification: I14, I18, Q18