Disparity in Health

Medical science has made significant advancement in the past few decades. However, some of the most prevalent and persistent  health problems could easily be prevented.  Access to health care is restricted and treatment is impacted due to the patients' economic barriers. 

Understanding the patient background influences medical treatment. Poverty affects health factors such as life expectancy, learning abilities, health behaviors, and risks for developing disease. Although poverty does not automatically determine an individual’s health status it can significantly influence it.

For example, the journal Ethnicity and Disease (Winter 2011) revealed that increased obesity was linked to income below poverty level, receipt of food stamps, and lower income in general. Since lower income levels equated to a lack of nutritious food and less consumption of healthy foods like fruits and vegetables.

In fact the journal BMC Cardiovascular Disorders reported  that low socioeconomic status, defined as less than a high school education and earning less than $12,000 annually, posed as an independent risk factor for the development of heart disease.

A strong health care "system" is essential for better health. However, a strong health care system does not address the disparity between those with a lower socioeconomic status who have less access to medical treatments, preventive care and health information thus, increasing health care costs.

Educating all individuals about the ways in which diet and lifestyle can impact human health is necessary for proper health care. A solid health foundation must be built on awareness, education, and equity.