Socio-economic factors affect health through a variety of mechanisms:
Access to Healthcare: Lower income and education levels are often associated with reduced access to healthcare services, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Living Conditions: Poor socioeconomic status is linked to substandard living conditions, including inadequate housing, which can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases. Nutritional Status: Economic constraints can limit access to nutritious food, leading to malnutrition and increased susceptibility to diseases. Health Behaviors: Socio-economic status can influence health behaviors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity, which are risk factors for chronic diseases.
