Several mechanisms explain how socioeconomic disparities impact health:
Access to Healthcare: Individuals with lower SES often have limited access to quality healthcare services. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Lifestyle Factors: People with lower SES may engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, poor diet, and physical inactivity due to lack of resources and education. Environmental Exposures: Lower SES groups are more likely to live in environments with higher pollution levels, poor housing conditions, and limited access to green spaces. Psychosocial Stress: Financial instability, job insecurity, and social inequalities can cause chronic stress, which adversely affects physical and mental health.
