Life is undeniably difficult for the unemployed, who have a mortality rate five times higher than that of those in permanent jobs in Europe. This is one of the findings of the report on social life in Europe in 2003, published by the European Commission on 9 September. It also emerges from the same report that even those deprived of upper secondary schooling do not enjoy good health: not being “informed”, they too “tolerate” illness more poorly that the better educated. A better condition of life is enjoyed, on the other hand, – the report suggests – by those who can rely on networks of social support, represented by families, relations and friends. These “networks” contribute considerably to safeguarding and improving the health of individuals. The report of the European Commission also reveals that life expectancy in the EU has increased by eight years since 1960. In 2000 average life expectancy was 75 years for men and 81 for women, one year more than for the USA. These circumstances are attributable to the better conditions of life and health of European citizens. The report, based on an analysis of social indicators in the fifteen member states of the Union, points out that the sector of healthcare is one of the most dynamic of the European economy. Between 1995 and 2001, over two million jobs have been created in this sector, in other words 18% of the total of new jobs.
