How a Turbulent Economy Threatens Public Health
Inflation is a growing concern across the nation, and research shows that this affects the ability of families to stay healthy.
STORY AT-A-GLANCE
High inflation rates are linked to increased child mortality, particularly in low-income countries, as they reduce access to essential resources like nutritious food and health care
Inflation erodes purchasing power, leading to poorer nutrition and increased stress, which disproportionately affects vulnerable populations and further exacerbates socioeconomic inequalities
Eviction is increasingly recognized as a public health crisis, contributing to poor health outcomes by disrupting social networks and increasing stress levels in communities
Evictions harm not only those directly affected but also the broader community by increasing disease risks, reducing access to health care and eroding social cohesion
Addressing the intertwined effects of inflation and eviction on public health requires comprehensive health policies to mitigate their impact on the populace
Adopting habits that support your health is one of the pillars to living a good life and creating joy from within. But what if the stars don’t align in terms of finances? Consider this scenario — an economic recession that affects employment, thus resulting in housing instability, which subsequently threatens public health. In fact, this is becoming a reality.
High inflation rates not only jeopardize financial security but also disrupt social networks and increase stress levels, which cascade into negative health outcomes. While you don’t need a degree in economics or finance, it’s important to recognize how inflation and housing insecurity intertwine to shape public health.
The Stark Impact of Inflation on Public Health
A study published in The Lancet Global Health examined the intricate relationship between economic factors and health outcomes, particularly focusing on how inflation and economic downturns influence mortality rates. The research highlighted that during years where a country has lower gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, alongside rising inflation and unemployment rates, there is an increase in child mortality rates.1
The study analyzed various demographics, emphasizing that the adverse effects of these economic indicators are most pronounced in low- and middle-income countries. These regions often struggle with limited resources, making the population more vulnerable to the negative consequences of inflation.2 By analyzing data across different socioeconomic landscapes, the researchers identified a consistent pattern where economic stressors directly correlate with deteriorating health metrics.
One of the critical findings was how inflation acts similarly to a tax hike, severely diminishing a household’s purchasing power. As prices for essential commodities like food and medication soar, families find it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities. This financial strain doesn’t just limit access to essentials — it also triggers a cascade of health-related issues, from poor nutrition to chronic stress, further exacerbating health disparities.3
Moreover, the study explored how economic recessions lead to increased unemployment in the workforce, which are established triggers for various health problems. As you can imagine, unemployment causes financial instability and leads people to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. As a result, a range of health issues, including heart disease and mental health disorders, increases.4
Another significant aspect the research touched upon was the strain on government finances during economic downturns. With reduced fiscal allocations, there’s a subsequent decrease in funding for health infrastructure, medical research and public health initiatives.
This budgetary pullback impedes the accessibility and quality of health services, indirectly affecting population health by limiting preventive measures and timely medical interventions, especially to those who need them the most.5
The study also shed light on the broader societal impacts of inflation, particularly how it exacerbates socioeconomic inequalities. Vulnerable populations, already facing barriers to accessing quality health care and other essential services, find themselves disproportionately affected by the escalating cost of living. This intensifies existing health disparities, making it even more challenging for these groups to take control of their health.6
In addition to the physical aspect, the research underscored the impact of economic downturns on mental health. Financial uncertainties lead to heightened stress and increased risk of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. The pervasive stress from economic instability not only affects individual well-being, but also has broader implications for community health. 7
Inflation Adds Barriers to Achieving Optimal Nutrition
The Lancet Global Health study also dove into how inflation negatively impacts dietary choices and nutrition. As food prices rise, households are forced to reduce their food expenditure, often purchasing lower-quality foods that lack essential nutrients. This shift not only affects the health of the family but also poses significant risks for vulnerable groups like children, who are more prone to malnutrition that eventually leads to growth challenges.8
What can governments do to assist those who have fallen on hard times? The researchers also emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive policies that address the multifaceted impact of inflation on public health.
By understanding the mechanisms through which inflation affects health — such as reduced purchasing power, increased stress and strained health services — policymakers will be able to develop targeted interventions to mitigate the adverse effects and promote better health outcomes across all socioeconomic strata.9
Eviction’s Ripple Effect on Community Health
Another study, published in Social Science & Medicine, also explored the extensive impact of evictions on community health. The research aimed to determine how evictions influence various health outcomes, especially in low- and middle-income communities. Here, researchers reveal that evictions harm not only the individuals directly affected but also the broader community.10
The study focused on populations experiencing high eviction rates, particularly in racially and ethnically marginalized communities. The findings indicated that evictions significantly increase the risk of infectious diseases, reduce access to health care and disrupt social cohesion within these communities.11
Evictions heighten the risk of infectious diseases, such COVID-19 and sexually transmitted diseases. When people lose their homes, they move into smaller spaces or shared accommodations, making it difficult to maintain a sanitary environment as well as personal hygiene. This increased exposure is particularly dangerous in communities with limited health care resources, making it harder to control outbreaks.12
As evictions displace individuals, they often lose their access to regular health care services. This disruption makes it difficult for people to adhere to medication programs they’re already following, particularly for those managing chronic conditions, leading to poorer health outcomes.13 Without a stable residence, maintaining consistent medical appointments and managing prescriptions becomes challenging.
What Is the Impact of Evictions on Drug Use and Related Mortality?
The study found that evictions are linked to higher rates of drug use and alcohol-related deaths. Eviction-induced poverty makes affordable safe sex options less accessible, increasing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission.14
Additionally, the stress from eviction leads individuals to cope through substance abuse, resulting in higher rates of accidental drug and alcohol mortality. This vicious cycle not only harms individuals but also places a greater burden on community health resources.
Rising eviction rates lead to increased neighborhood crime and strain social bonds, further diminishing the quality of life and overall health of community members.15 As more people are displaced, the breakdown of community structures leads to higher crime rates, which in turn create an unsafe living environment.
This cyclical process accumulates sociobiological disadvantages, making it more difficult for communities to achieve positive health outcomes and recover from public health crises.
So, who are the most affected groups? According to the researchers, eviction rates are disproportionately higher in racially and ethnically marginalized communities.16 These communities already face numerous barriers to health care and economic stability, and high eviction rates highlight these inequalities further. The persistent threat of eviction among these populations creates additional stress and instability.
The Psychological Effects of Evictions on Families and Communities
There’s also the psychological component of the community to consider. Evictions disrupt social networks and reduce social capital — the mutual aid and support that flows within communities.17
When neighbors are forced out of their homes, the sense of community weakens, making it harder for residents to support each other during times of crises. This erosion of social cohesion weakens community resilience, making it more difficult for neighborhoods to respond effectively to health emergencies or other challenges. It’s also a contributing factor to urban decay:18
“Although less well-documented, hearing about neighbors being evicted might prevent tenants from advocating for their right to safe, health-promoting housing. Fearing eviction, tenants might feel disempowered when it comes time to ask landlords for needed repairs, pest and mold remediation, etc.”
Seeing neighbors forced out of their homes and their possessions piled on the street increases the psychological duress people feel when struggling to pay rent.19 This visible displacement heightens the emotional stress and anxiety within communities, leading to long-term mental health issues. The constant fear of losing one’s home creates a pervasive sense of instability and insecurity, which have lasting effects on individuals’ mental well-being.
Solutions to Combat Health Disruption in an Unstable Economy
Addressing community health issues during economic challenges requires a multifaceted approach that align with optimizing cellular energy production and overall health. Here are four strategies that will make a significant impact:
Enhance access to personalized, nutrient-dense foods — Ensure that families have tailored access to appropriate carbohydrate sources. Support local initiatives that provide fresh, whole fruits, vegetables and healthy starches to low-income communities. Advocate for programs that subsidize these nutrient-dense carbohydrates from sustainable farmers, making them affordable and accessible for every family.
Eliminate subsidies for vegetable oils and other industrially processed ingredients — Call your legislators to advocate for the removal of farm subsidies that favor the production of vegetable oils and other harmful, processed ingredients. In fact, the American Action Forum reports that the government has subsidized $44.9 billion for soybean production since 1995.20
By advocating for the elimination of these subsidies, you’re reducing the availability and affordability of detrimental ingredients that ultimately go into the making of ultraprocessed food. In turn, people will be encouraged to follow healthy dietary choices.
Redirect subsidies to support farmers producing whole, nutrient-dense foods — Promote the reallocation of farm subsidies towards farmers who cultivate whole, nutrient-dense foods such as organic fruits, vegetables and high-quality protein such as grass fed beef. Not only does it encourage sustainable farming practices, but also ensures a balanced and sustainable food supply, enhancing the availability and affordability of nutritious food for families in need.
Promote sustainable, regenerative farming practices — Encourage farming methods that prioritize the production of foods rich in essential nutrients without harmful additives. Support organic and sustainable agriculture by participating in local farming cooperatives and choosing to purchase products that reflect these values.
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