Table 6 Strengths and limitations of MIR and FLYLAD measures

MIR

Familiar measure with history of use

Uses frequently available incidence and mortality rates

Requisite incidence, mortality and population level data not always available

Evaluated at population level with potential variation in time periods and back-scattering

FLYLAD

New measure derived from internationally established burden of disease framework

Components evaluated against an optimal standard

Evaluation against an optimal standard can overestimate disparities open to short term change

Numerator and denominator evaluated at individual, person level

No back-scattering

Separate components evaluate time: at risk and lost

Potential to include quality of life perspective within life at risk component

MIR and FLYLAD

Offers a relative perspective on health inequality

Interpretation of changes in relative measures can be difficult

Imperfect, yet offers transparent method to quantification

Measure selection requires assessment against the relevant information need and application