POPULATION HEALTH DYNAMICS AND INEQUALITIES IN ROMANIA: INDICATORS, TRENDS, AND DETERMINANTS

Population health in Romania is shaped by complex epidemiological dynamics resulting from demographic change, the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases, and persistent social and territorial inequalities. Despite gradual improvements in life expectancy over the past two decades, Romania continues to lag behind the European Union average, particularly due to high levels of preventable and treatable mortality. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of recent population health trends in Romania, using quantitative indicators from Eurostat, the World Health Organization, and the National Institute for Public Health.The analysis focuses on mortality and morbidity patterns, regional disparities, and key socio-economic and behavioral determinants of health. Special attention is given to territorial inequalities in healthcare access and infrastructure, as well as to the role of lifestyle related risk factors. By integrating empirical data with insights from recent literature, the paper highlights the main structural and institutional challenges affecting population health outcomes in Romania. The findings underline the need for strengthened preventive healthcare, targeted public health interventions, and policies aimed at reducing social and regional health inequalities. The study contributes to the existing literature by offering an updated, indicator-based overview of population health dynamics in Romania and by outlining key directions for improving health equity and overall population health performance.