Lower-income and education levels are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
A research team from Yonsei University College of Medicine’s Severance Hospital, comprising Professors Duk Kyu Cho, Ji Woong Roh, and Sung A Bae from the Department of Cardiology, alongside Professor Dong Hoon Choi, analyzed the impact of socioeconomic status on the prevalence of these diseases.
The researchers stated, “Socioeconomic inequality is contributing to health disparities.”
The team analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2007 to 2018 to examine changes in the prevalence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases among 47,745 economically active individuals aged 30 to 64.
The results confirmed that low education and income levels significantly contribute to an increased risk of these diseases. In particular, individuals with both low income and education consistently had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases compared to those with higher income and education levels.
Despite societal shifts such as population aging, urbanization, and rising obesity rates during this period, the overall prevalence of these diseases remained relatively stable. This stability is likely due to positive trends, including greater participation in health screenings, better hypertension management, and reduced smoking rates.
However, individuals in lower socioeconomic groups continued to experience a higher prevalence of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.
Choi commented, “Despite Korea’s economic development, the health gap linked to socioeconomic status remains unresolved.”
He emphasized the need for policy support to reduce the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases among vulnerable populations.
Cho noted, “Low income and education levels affect not only access to healthcare services but also health awareness and self-management.” He stressed that “tailored education programs and support are essential for effective prevention and treatment.”
Roh and Bae added, “Improving access to healthcare systems for vulnerable groups is vital for effectively managing major risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes.”
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