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How Does Income Affect Health?

While the old adage says "money isn't everything," it does provide the basic necessities, including healthcare, shelter and food. In a utopia, people wouldn't struggle with money, but unfortunately many people do run into financial problems. When a lack of income prevents people from purchasing health insurance, food, clothes and bills, health problems often result.

  1. Health Insurance

    • Unless you receive health insurance benefits from your company, you'll likely have to purchase a private health insurance plan, which can cost well over $100 per month. Rates increase if you're older and have current or past health issues, such as asthma and heart problems. Those who struggle to pay everyday bills might not be able to purchase health insurance, which can lead to health issues that could be avoided with the proper coverage. People who do not have a large monthly income cannot pay for medical bills that can soar over $1,000 for diagnostic tests and surgery; so those people may let their conditions worsen before seeking help.

    Stress

    • A lack of income can increase stress levels in individuals who do not have enough money to pay for their expenses. According to a Carnegie Mellon University study in 2006, low income groups suffer from higher stress levels, followed by the middle class and then the higher income earners. High stress can cause several health issues, including heart problems, balding and diabetes complications. The less income an individual pulls in, the more stress he generally incurs.

    Income and Education

    • Income alone serves as a solid indicator of a person's health outlook, but it's more powerful when combined with a person's education. According to Gallup, individuals who have less education and a lower income suffer from more serious health issues than those who have a better education. For example, according to a Gallup Poll, 32 percent of college graduates who made less than $24,000 said they have health conditions that make it impossible from doing some of the things people their age can do. Conversely, 48 percent of polled individuals who did not graduate high school and made less than $24,000 answered similarly.

    Increases in Income

    • Employees in the United States sees small increases in income as time passes, but the change is almost negligible. The Oxford Journals reported that from 1970 to 1999, the United States average annual individual income increased by 10 percent. Health care rates have typically increased significantly each year, far surpassing the increase in income. For example, the Kaiser Family Foundation found that the average single health premium rose each year between 2000 and 2010. 2000 average premiums were $2,471, while 2010 premiums were $5,049. If income continues to increase in small percentages and health care premiums do not fall, more of the population likely will feel the health effects that low income brings.

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