What is the relationship between income inequality and health disparities?

The relationship highlighted between income inequality and health disparities emphasizes that as income inequality rises, health disparities tend to increase as well. This is supported by numerous studies indicating that populations in areas with significant income gaps experience worse health outcomes compared to those in areas with more equitable income distribution.

Higher income inequality can lead to a range of social determinants that negatively impact health, such as reduced access to quality healthcare, education, and healthy living environments. Moreover, those with lower incomes often face additional stressors, including financial instability and limited access to resources, which can further exacerbate health issues.

On the other hand, options that suggest a lack of relationship between income inequality and health disparities, or imply that lower inequality leads to greater disparities, do not align with the evidence presented in public health research indicating that greater income equality tends to support better overall health outcomes for the population.