Examples Of Economic Determinants Of Health

Economic Determinants of Health Some of the determinants of economic stability include politics and government, housing, and healthy food sources, among others; each of these factors has an impact on health. Economic determinants of health are determined by financial status as it relates to economic stability of an individual. In order to address the economic determinant of health each of these factors must be taken into account to better understand the dynamics of economic stability and how these factors are interrelated. In the United States and worldwide, there is an unequal economic system that is responsible for many of the health disparities that are prevalent in our societies. The vast financial gap and unequal distribution of wealth in our society is the cause of many health concerns seen among the population. The U.S. Census Bureau conducted a survey in 2014 which estimated that 14.5% of Americans are living below the poverty line. The poverty threshold for a single person unit is $11,770 annually (2015 Poverty Guidelines, 2014). Surprisingly, a family unit of four that includes two adults and two children with an annual income above $24,250 is not considered to be living in poverty (2015 Poverty Guidelines, 2014). These income and poverty indexes remain the same throughout all U.S. states. It does not take into
Families with lower incomes, particularly single parents household, are forced to reside in poor neighborhoods where there is a decrease in the quality of education and crime rates are high. Those who have economic advantages may choose to reside in more affluent neighborhoods where they, in turn, will have access to better schools and health care facilities. In addition, better neighborhoods yield safer environments and lower crime rates, which impacts psychological health as well as physical welfare for families, especially