SEX DISCRIMINATION

Denmark puts a lot of weight on the equality of the sexes, notably in the job market. But results don't always end up equal.

Research shows that women are moving to the cities, leaving men behind in the rural areas. In the suburbs of Copenhagen, the ratio of women to men of working age (15-64) is more than 106 : 100; while in parts of West and North Jutland, it can be as low as 90 : 100. On the southern islands such as Ærø, it is even lower.

"So what?" you might say. But if you are a man, you ought to be worried. Because the areas where there are a preponderance of men are also the areas which have above average mortality. Basically, there are fewer doctors and other healthcare providers in these areas; and men tend to go to the doctor much less often than women. These factors, combined with men's lower life expectancy, result in poorer health.

I live in a kommune which has 94-98 women for every 100 men, and above average mortality. Something to ponder as I pedal on my bicycle.

Walter Blotscher