Exploring the interplay of living conditions and perceived health status: Evidence from Macao

Despite the recognition that physical and social environments influence health, few studies have explored the relationship between health and various living conditions in the greater China area, where approximately 18 percent of the world’s population currently lives. This study attempts to narrow this gap by examining the impact of housing, economic, and neighborhood conditions on perceived physical health in Macao. Using data from the 2016 Macao Social Survey, which includes a sample size of 3,493 participants, living conditions are conceptualized as encompassing housing conditions, economic conditions, and neighborhood conditions. Multiple regression analyses revealed significant relationships between living conditions and perceived physical health. The findings indicate that specific housing and economic factors significantly influence health perceptions and that a notable relationship exists between neighborhood conditions and perceived health status. This research underscores the importance of designing interventions to improve perceived health status that are tailored to address diverse living conditions.