Does higher education matter in mitigating chronic disease Mortality? evidence from MENA countries with consideration of Globalization, economic Growth, and environmental pollution

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between higher education and mortality rates from chronic and fatal diseases in MENA countries from 2000 to 2020. Utilizing a robust panel econometric framework with Generalized Least Square, Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS), and Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS), we analyze empirical data while controlling for globalization, CO2 emissions, and GDP per capita. Our findings reveal a significant negative correlation between education and mortality rates, paralleled by similar trends for globalization and GDP per capita. Conversely, CO2 emissions are found to increase mortality rates, highlighting the detrimental impact of environmental degradation on public health. This underscores the pivotal role of education, globalization, and economic development in reducing mortality rates associated with chronic and fatal diseases. The study advocates for increased investments in education and healthcare infrastructure to address disparities and enhance public health outcomes, alongside promoting responsible globalization practices to further improve health metrics.