Poverty and Health
People with low incomes,particularly those who live in poverty,face particular challenges in maintaining their health.They are more likely than those with higher incomes to become ill,and to die at younger ages.They are also more likely to live in poor environmental situations with limited health care resources—factors that can compromise health status and access to care.Public programs play a vital role in helping to reduce disparities in health by income by supporting health initiatives targeted at those with low incomes and maintaining a safety net of health and social services for the poor.