Socioeconomic

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Socioeconomic refers to the social and economic circumstances that shape the health of individuals and communities. Socioeconomic factors are recognized as important components of health status and healthcare access.

Definition[edit | edit source]

Socioeconomic status (SES) is an economic and sociological combined total measure of a person's work experience and of an individual's or family's economic and social position in relation to others. This is typically measured by considering education, income, and occupation.

Socioeconomic Factors and Health[edit | edit source]

Socioeconomic factors significantly affect health outcomes. Individuals with low socioeconomic status often have less access to healthcare services, experience higher rates of disease, and have shorter life expectancies. Socioeconomic factors can also influence health behaviors, such as diet and exercise, which in turn can affect health status.

Socioeconomic Status and Healthcare Access[edit | edit source]

Access to healthcare is significantly influenced by socioeconomic status. Individuals with low socioeconomic status often face barriers to healthcare access, including financial constraints, lack of transportation, and limited availability of healthcare providers. These barriers can lead to delayed or inadequate healthcare, resulting in poorer health outcomes.

Socioeconomic Status and Disease[edit | edit source]

Socioeconomic status is associated with the prevalence of certain diseases. Individuals with low socioeconomic status are more likely to experience chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. These individuals are also more likely to experience mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.

Socioeconomic Status and Life Expectancy[edit | edit source]

Life expectancy is significantly influenced by socioeconomic status. Individuals with low socioeconomic status often have shorter life expectancies due to a combination of factors, including higher rates of disease, less access to healthcare, and poorer health behaviors.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Socioeconomic Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD