Health inequalities between richer and poorer people are also apparent, with the latter experiencing a greater toll on their health. Sadly, the differences in health and healthcare access between different socio-economic groups is a long-standing issue, with the impact of these differences worsening due to the cost of living crisis.
The surprise of the cost of living crisis is that people in above-average income groups are affected, too Food, heating, and transport appear to be having the greatest effect
This follows the price cap rise of fuel from last year caused by the ever-increasing price of the dollar vs the KES, leading to an unprecedented rise in household bills – the crisis has pushed the number of homes living below poverty to 15 million.
The health risks
Elderly people and persons living with disabilities are particularly vulnerable because they are highly marginalized and they cannot access affordable and quality healthcare.
Cost of living – food
Rising food prices are having the biggest effect on our health, In fact, food prices are increasing at the fastest rate currently than in years before. Fresh and less processed foods have always been the more expensive food choice. Now recent grocery inflation is pushing these healthier options further out of reach for wide stretches of the public. Instead, many are turning to cheaper, less nutritious options or cutting back on food completely.
The health risks
A diet with lower nutritional quality increases the risk of many health issues, such as:
I. Constipation.
II. Type 2 diabetes.
III. Heart disease and stroke.
IV. Some cancers – for example, obesity increases the risk of many cancers, including of the colon, kidney, and breast.
V. Nutrient deficiencies – for example, iron-deficiency anemia
Cost of living – transport
The cost of living crisis is also having an impact on our health in less direct ways. With the dollar rate driving up fuel prices, nearly all of us are feeling the pinch.
The health risks
I. Inaccessibility to healthcare – resulting in late/missed diagnosis and prevention of treatment.
II. Increased isolation and loneliness – can lead to depression, anxiety, and increase the risk of mental decline in older people.
III. Stress – financial stress can reduce the quality of life.
Financial stress
As wages fail to keep up with the cost of these essential amenities – as well as many other factors such as housing costs, swelling interest rates, and council tax rises – financial health, stability, and quality of life are on a lot of people’s minds.
The health risks.
Financial stress shouldn’t be underestimated. In itself, stress can have a massive impact on our day-to-day lives and reduce our quality of life. There is also evidence that long-term, unmanaged stress can help to develop or worsen several mental and physical health conditions, including:
I. Asthma.
II. Rheumatoid arthritis.
III. Depression.
IV. Anxiety.
V. Cardiovascular disease (conditions of the heart and surrounding blood vessels).
VI. Chronic (long-term) pain.
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