The Inequality That Kills: Why Heart Disease Hits the Poor Harder

The Inequality That Kills: Why Heart Disease Hits the Poor Harder

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, but the risk of serious heart problems depends not only on lifestyle or heredity, but also on income. A growing body of research shows that people with lower socioeconomic status are more likely to suffer from heart disease.

Statistics show that poorer people are at higher risk of developing hypertension, coronary heart disease, and myocardial infarction. This relationship is explained by a combination of factors: limited access to quality medicine, high levels of stress, an unbalanced diet, more smoking, and lack of regular physical activity.

One of the key problems is the lack of opportunities for prevention. People with low incomes are less likely to undergo medical examinations, seek help later, and have less access to cardiologists and specialized treatment. Even with government programs, transportation, knowledge of symptoms, and trust in the medical system can be barriers.

In addition, poorer families often eat less expensive but less healthy foods. Diets high in salt, sugar, trans fats, and a lack of fresh fruits and vegetables contribute to the development of chronic diseases. Physical activity is also limited — not everyone has access to a gym or lives in areas with safe walking environments.

Psychological factors also play a role. Chronic stress, financial instability, depression, and social isolation put a significant strain on the cardiovascular system. All of these increase the frequency of heart attacks and make it more difficult to recover from them.

The fight against heart disease must therefore encompass not only medical aspects but also social reforms. Affordable prevention, health education, reducing income inequality, and investments in infrastructure can significantly reduce the rate of cardiovascular disease in poorer communities. This is not just a matter of public health, but also of social justice.