Definitions
The unequal distribution of money and resources across individuals or groups in a society.
income inequality
This 1986–2006 U.S. study found that inequality affects mortality with a 5-year lag, peaking at 7 years.
Hui Zheng study
A common measure of health disparity, such as differences in life expectancy between rich and poor.
mortality rate
This continent has some of the highest income inequality levels in the world.
Africa
True or False: Income inequality only affects health through lack of money.
False
Differences in health status or access to healthcare across populations.
health inequality
Found that every 0.05 increase in the Gini coefficient led to 39% higher odds of reporting poor health.
Subramanian & Kawachi study
Limited access to this can lead to poorer health outcomes, especially in low-income populations.
healthcare access
Countries with higher income inequality often see higher rates of this health issue among the poor.
premature mortality / poor health outcomes
The effect of inequality on health that is not explained by race or income is called this
direct effect
A measure of income inequality that ranges from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (extreme inequality).
Gini coefficient
Found 1990 state-level inequality increased men’s mortality risk by 22% independent of race.
Backlund et al. study
People in lower-income communities often experience higher levels of this chronic condition.
disease prevalence
The World Health Organization states that social determinants of health include income, education, and this environment factor.
living conditions / environment
Short life expectancy, high disease rates, and poor access to healthcare are examples of this
health disparities/health inequalities
When income inequality affects health over time, sometimes years later.
lag effect
The term for controlling factors like age, race, and education in a study to isolate the effect of inequality.
statistical control
This factor can modify how strongly income inequality impacts health outcomes (hint: it can be race, education, or employment).
confounding variable
This is the term for the difference in wealth or health between the richest and poorest nations.
global inequality
Reducing income inequality could improve overall health and this aspect of society.
fairness/public health