Social Inequality, Poverty, and Health
Imagine two individuals: one with access to nutritious food, safe housing, and quality healthcare, and another struggling with food insecurity, living in a polluted environment, and lacking access to medical services. The disparities in their living conditions significantly impact their health outcomes. “The poverty line is the level of income that the federal government considers sufficient to meet basic requirements of food, shelter, and clothing. In 2016, the poverty line for a family of four in the United States was $24,300. One of the alarming elements about poverty is that many people who do not fall under the government’s poverty line still have very limited incomes and a living standard that is similar to those below the poverty line.” (Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman, 2019). I chose this article because it does a good job of explaining poverty and how adjustable the line is. For example, I grew up in a middle-class family, but at the same time, we were living paycheck to paycheck. I always had a roof over my head and a full stomach, but I understood where my parents struggled. Sometimes, we had to wait months to go to the grocery store. Or reuse medication because we could not afford to go to the doctor. The poverty line in my eyes is changeable; people can live very well one month and then struggle the next.
Wealthier individuals often have the resources to afford better healthcare, including preventative care and timely treatment. They can also afford healthier lifestyles, such as nutritious diets and regular exercise. In contrast, individuals with lower incomes may face barriers to accessing healthcare and healthy food options, resulting in poorer health outcomes. Socioeconomic status can influence stress levels and health behaviors. People in lower-income brackets often experience higher levels of stress due to financial instability and lack of opportunities, which can contribute to chronic diseases.
The video that I chose was “Wealth Inequality in America.” The video starts with a discussion of the wealth distribution in America. The chart that is shown is complex to see, it is uneven, and it shows what the world truly looks like when it comes to the wealth in America. The following diagram shows what the ideal wealth distribution should look like, and this is more even and more practical to solve the inequalities that we see every day. “Most Americans know that the system is skewed already.” (Wealth Inequality in America, 2012).
Imagine a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their socioeconomic status. To move closer to this vision, several impactful measures could be implemented. One crucial step is to expand access to affordable healthcare. This could involve implementing universal healthcare programs that ensure everyone has access to essential medical services, regardless of their income. Additionally, investing in preventative care and health education can empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Another critical area to address is income inequality. Implementing policies that promote fair wages, such as raising the minimum wage and strengthening workers’ rights, can help reduce the gap between the rich and the poor. Additionally, investing in education and job training programs can provide individuals with the skills and opportunities they need to climb the economic ladder. By addressing these disparities, we can create a more equitable society where everyone has the chance to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
References:
Wealth inequality in America. University of Nebraska Kearney Media Library. (n.d.). https://unk.yuja.com/V/Video?v=8903080&node=38470338&a=198654506&autoplay=1
Zastrow & Kirst-Ashman: Understanding Human Behavior and the Social Environment. (2019).
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