RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Genetics and health inequalities: hypotheses and controversies JF Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health JO J Epidemiol Community Health FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd SP 268 OP 273 DO 10.1136/jech.2004.026807 VO 59 IS 4 A1 Johan P Mackenbach YR 2005 UL http://jech.bmj.com/content/59/4/268.abstract AB This article reviews the current understanding of the explanation of socioeconomic inequalities in health in industrialised countries and then tries to determine where genetic factors could fit into explanatory schemes. It focuses on the explanation of socioeconomic inequalities in frequency of the main health problems of middle and old age.