The study examined changes over time in health inequality in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. Data derive from comparable interview surveys carried out in 1986/87 and 1994/95. Limiting long-standing illness and perceived ill health were analysed regarding age, gender; educational attainment, and employment status. Age adjusted prevalence rates were calculated. Changes in differences in health were found in education and employment status groups. There was little or no change in the prevalence of ill health during the time period studied. Despite social and economic changes differences in health remained broadly stable in the examined countries.