INCOME AND HEALTH

Significant link between income and health. Factors such as social class, housing, and poor diet can all be linked to income. However there are exceptions such as those in high income groups who make poor lifestyle choices and hereditary factors.

INCOME AND HEALTH - DIET More likely to shop in stores such as farmfoods as opposed to marks and spencers due to cost. Access is also a problem for many, e.g single parent living in Castlemilk may have to rely on public transport so will shop locally which is a false economy, more expensive and poorer choice Shettleston in Glasgow – 4 mile stretch of road 32 fast food carry out shops– but you cannot buy fruit or veg.

INCOME AND HEALTH - Housing In areas of high poverty levels, people are more likely to live in poorer housing. Problems such as overcrowding and dampness. These factors have a negative effect on health such as chest infections and asthma. It also allows disease and illness to spread quicker.

INCOME AND HEALTH - unemployment Unemployment has a negative effect on health. Unemployed more likely to suffer from stress and depression. They have higher rates of suicide. Unemployment is directly linked to poverty.

INCOME AND HEALTH - exercise Lower income groups less likely to take regular exercise. Cost of leisure fees, e.g Cameron house, cost of equipment eg golf clubs, tennis rackets can be a barrier to lower income groups participating. Higher income groups far more likely to listen to health promotions, e.g 5 a day and be able to afford it.

INCOME AND HEALTH Other factors also must be looked at - Some well off people make poor lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, excessive use of alcohol and drugs, smoking, and lack of exercise. Hereditary factors also contribute and are in no way linked to income.

INCOME AND HEALTH In conclusion – Income does effect health but other factors do play a part as well.