Describe the consequences of social inequality, in particular poverty, within the United States

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

People who are wealthy, are well educated, and have high-paying jobs are much more

likely to be healthy than are poor people. As people's economic status increases, so

does their health status. The poor have shorter life expectancies and are at greater risk

for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, as well as infectious

diseases such as tuberculosis. Children born into poor families are at much greater risk

of dying during their first year of life. Most of the poor do not receive preventive

medical and dental checkups? many do not receive adequate medical care after they

experience illness or injury. Many high-poverty areas lack an adequate supply of

doctors and medical facilities. Some "charity" clinics and hospitals may provide indigent

patients (those who cannot pay) with minimal emergency care but make them feel

stigmatized in the process. For many of the working poor, medical insurance is out of

the question. Many lower-paying jobs are often the most dangerous and have the

greatest health hazards. Analysts suggest that people with higher income and wealth

tend to smoke less, exercise more, maintain a healthy body weight, and eat nutritious

meals. As a category, more-affluent persons tend to be less depressed and face less

psychological stress, conditions that tend to be directly proportional to income,

education, and job status. Good health is basic to good life chances? in turn, adequate

nutrition is essential for good health. Hunger is related to class position and income

inequality. Between 33 and 50 percent of all children living in poverty consume

significantly less than the federally recommended guidelines for caloric and nutritional

intake. Lack of adequate nutrition has been linked to children's problems in school.