Reasons why health inequalities exist Flashcards
1
Q
What was one of the fundamental principles of the NHS?
A
Commitment to remove inequalities in healthcare provision
2
Q
What factors can affect health despite NHS achievements?
A
Position, gender, ethnic origin, and area of residence
3
Q
What is important to consider before concluding poverty explains health differences?
A
Other factors, such as lifestyle and stress, also play a role
4
Q
Which regions in the UK have the highest death rates?
A
Scotland, followed by the North and North-West of England
5
Q
How does cancer care and death rates differ across the UK?
A
Scotland has almost twice the cancer death rate of the South-West of England
6
Q
What is life expectancy like in Scotland compared to England and Wales?
A
Life expectancy for men is lower in Scotland
7
Q
How does healthcare spending compare between Scotland and England?
A
Scotland spends £200 more per person on healthcare but still experiences more ill health
8
Q
What is the staffing situation in Scottish healthcare?
A
Staffing levels in Scotland are about 30% higher than in England
9
Q
Why is healthcare more expensive to provide in Scotland?
A
Scotland has a larger land area, fewer people, and many island communities
10
Q
What is a key explanation for health inequalities, beyond geography?
A
Wealth and poverty
11
Q
How do social class and lifestyle affect health?
A
They play a crucial role in health outcomes, as shown by reports like the Black and Acheson Reports
12
Q
Who researched the link between poverty and ill health in Scotland?
A
Sir Harry Burns, the Chief Medical Officer for Scotland
13
Q
What impact does stress have on health?
A
Stress is toxic for poorer people, while professional people can manage stress better
14
Q
What effect does early life stress have on health?
A
It can dramatically affect the body’s host defenses and health outcomes
15
Q
How does poverty impact mental health and physical health?
A
Loss of control and hopelessness contribute to poor health
16
Q
What percentage of lung cancer cases is caused by smoking?
A
Around 70%
17
Q
What are some other cancers caused by smoking?
A
Mouth, throat, liver, stomach, and pancreatic cancers
18
Q
How many deaths annually in the UK are smoking-related?
A
45,000 deaths
19
Q
What percentage of lung cancer deaths in Scotland is due to smoking?
A
Nearly 90%
20
Q
How does smoking impact heart disease?
A
It increases the risk by 2 to 4 times
21
Q
What is the leading cause of death in the UK linked to smoking?
A
Coronary heart disease
22
Q
How does smoking affect the risk of stroke?
A
Smoking increases the risk by up to 50%
23
Q
What is COPD and how is smoking related?
A
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the leading cause of which is smoking
24
Q
How many hospital admissions in Scotland are linked to smoking?
A
128,000 admissions annually
25
What percentage of deaths from cardiovascular diseases in Scotland are smoking-related?
Nearly 1 in 3 deaths
26
What is the smoking rate in Scotland?
About 14% of the adult population smokes
27
How have smoking cessation rates changed recently?
The rate of quitting has declined by about one-third
28
Where in the UK do women have some of the highest rates of smoking-related lung cancer?
Glasgow, second only to Liverpool
29
What financial impact does smoking have on households in Scotland?
Smoking contributes to poverty, with 63,000 families potentially escaping poverty if they quit
30
What percentage of smokers in Scotland live in poverty?
42%
31
How much of their income do the poorest households in Scotland spend on smoking?
29.4% of their income
32
How much of their income do the wealthiest households spend on smoking?
3.35% of their income
33
What is the smoking rate among the poorest individuals in Scotland?
32%
34
What is the smoking rate among the wealthiest individuals in Scotland?
6%
35
Why might poorer people smoke more?
Smoking can act as a coping mechanism for financial stress and hunger
36
How does smoking contribute to health inequalities?
Smoking is more prevalent in disadvantaged communities, exacerbating health disparities
37
Can smoking be considered a choice for poor people?
Smoking is an addiction influenced by socio-economic factors, not just personal choice
38
How much of Scotland’s smoking-related deaths could be avoided?
Over 1 in 10 of all deaths in Scotland are smoking-related, suggesting many could be prevented
39
How does smoking exacerbate financial hardship in Scotland?
It reduces disposable income, leading to cycles of deprivation and poor health
40
What percentage of young people in the most deprived areas of Scotland vape?
7.8%
41
What percentage of young people in affluent areas of Scotland vape?
4.6%
42
Why do poor people find it harder to quit smoking?
Financial stress, lack of resources, and addiction make quitting difficult
43
How can smoking be linked to poor health outcomes in Scotland?
Smoking is a leading cause of death and illness, with high rates in deprived areas, contributing to health inequality
44
What is alcohol consumption linked to in terms of cancer?
Alcohol is a known risk factor for mouth, throat, breast, and liver cancers
45
How many cases of mouth cancer are linked to alcohol consumption in the UK?
Over 30% of mouth cancers are linked to alcohol
46
How many breast cancer cases in the UK are attributed to alcohol?
Around 6,000 cases of breast cancer each year are linked to alcohol
47
What are some other health conditions caused by excessive alcohol consumption?
Stroke, heart disease, liver disease, brain damage, nervous system damage, and weakened immune system
48
How many stroke-related deaths in the UK are caused by alcohol consumption?
Approximately 7,000 stroke-related deaths annually
49
What percentage of heart disease cases in the UK are linked to alcohol?
Around 12% of heart disease cases are alcohol-related
50
How many deaths in Scotland are caused by alcohol-related liver disease each year?
Around 2,000 deaths annually
51
How much higher are alcohol-related deaths in the most deprived areas of Scotland compared to other areas?
Alcohol-related deaths are 5.6 times higher in the most deprived areas
52
What percentage of individuals in Scotland consume alcohol at harmful levels?
1 in 4 individuals, or about 25%
53
How many alcohol-specific deaths occurred in Scotland in 2021?
1,245 alcohol-specific deaths
54
How much higher is daily alcohol consumption in Scotland compared to England?
Daily consumption is about 25% higher in Scotland
55
At what age was the youngest case of liver damage in Scotland recorded?
A 17-year-old who started drinking at age 12
56
What is the alcohol-related death rate in deprived areas of Glasgow compared to the UK average?
The death rate is four times higher than the UK average
57
How does alcohol consumption contribute to health inequalities in Scotland?
Alcohol consumption is much higher in Scotland, leading to more alcohol-related deaths, particularly in deprived areas
58
How much higher are alcohol-specific death rates for the poorest in Scotland compared to the wealthiest?
Alcohol-specific death rates are more than eight times higher for the poorest
59
What role does poverty play in alcohol consumption?
Poverty increases stress, leading individuals to use alcohol as a coping mechanism
60
What are some common stressors faced by people who consume alcohol excessively in deprived areas?
Unemployment, mental health issues, and social isolation
61
What percentage of people in low-income households use alcohol to cope with stress?
Many low-income individuals report using alcohol as a coping mechanism for daily struggles
62
How does alcohol misuse relate to mental health in deprived communities?
Alcohol misuse is often a response to mental health challenges, which are more prevalent in deprived communities
63
What is the cultural significance of alcohol in Scotland?
Alcohol is an integral part of Scottish culture, which contributes to high consumption rates
64
How does alcohol consumption in Scotland compare to England in terms of deaths?
Alcohol-related deaths in Scotland are nearly twice as high as those in England
65
Why is alcohol misuse higher in deprived communities?
Deprivation leads to higher stress levels, making alcohol a common coping mechanism for people in these communities
66
How much more likely are people in poverty to die from alcohol-related causes in Scotland?
People in poverty are significantly more likely to die from alcohol-related causes than wealthier individuals
67
How can health inequalities related to alcohol consumption be addressed?
By recognising the socio-economic factors driving alcohol misuse and targeting interventions in deprived communities
68
How does alcohol consumption impact public health in Scotland?
Alcohol consumption contributes to a range of health problems, including liver disease, heart disease, cancer, and stroke, leading to high mortality rates
69
How is alcohol consumption linked to social inequalities?
Excessive drinking is more common in deprived areas, contributing to a cycle of health inequalities, stress, and poverty
70
What is the link between alcohol and health inequality in Scotland?
Alcohol-related harm disproportionately affects those in poverty, increasing health inequalities in the country
71
What are some health conditions caused by obesity?
Cardiovascular issues, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, gallbladder conditions, joint problems, gout, and respiratory issues
72
What is the link between obesity and cardiovascular health?
Obesity increases the risk of heart disease and stroke
73
How does obesity affect blood pressure?
Obesity leads to elevated blood pressure levels (hypertension)
74
What type of diabetes is commonly associated with obesity?
Type 2 diabetes, due to insulin resistance
75
Which cancers are linked to obesity?
Certain cancers, including breast, liver, and colon cancers
76
How does obesity affect the gallbladder?
Obesity increases susceptibility to gallbladder disease and gallstones
77
What joint problems are caused by obesity?
Osteoarthritis and related joint pain
78
How does obesity affect the respiratory system?
It can cause breathing problems, including sleep apnoea and asthma
79
What is Scotland’s 'takeaway culture'?
Scotland's tendency to opt for unhealthy food choices due to convenience, availability, and taste
80
What health burden does obesity place on the UK?
Obesity costs the UK healthcare system £6 billion each year
81
How much of adult cancer cases in Scotland are linked to obesity?
1 in 20 adult cancer cases are linked to obesity
82
What mental health conditions are associated with obesity?
Depression and anxiety
83
What group faces the highest levels of food insecurity in Scotland?
Single parents and adults under 65 living alone
84
What percentage of single parents in Scotland worry about running out of food?
34% of single parents report concerns about food insecurity
85
How does the cost of food contribute to poor diet in Scotland?
Fresh, nutritious foods are more expensive than unhealthy options high in fat, sugar, and salt
86
What is the link between poverty and physical exercise?
People in lower-income brackets are less likely to meet recommended physical activity levels
87
What is the percentage of adults in lower-income brackets who meet physical activity guidelines?
Only 34% of adults in lower-income brackets meet physical activity guidelines
88
How do deprived areas affect physical activity?
Lack of access to safe and affordable recreational spaces limits exercise opportunities
89
What impact does stress have on physical activity in low-income populations?
High stress and mental health issues discourage regular physical activity
90
How does economic hardship affect physical activity?
Economic difficulties make it harder for low-income individuals to engage in physical activities
91
What percentage of Scots are overweight or obese?
67% of Scots are overweight or obese
92
How does a poor diet contribute to obesity?
Consuming unhealthy foods and lacking exercise leads to weight gain and obesity-related health problems
93
What are the health risks associated with obesity in Scotland?
Obesity leads to heart disease, cancer, respiratory issues, and other chronic conditions
94
What percentage of children in the poorest parts of Scotland are at risk of obesity?
Children from the poorest areas are twice as likely to be at risk of obesity
95
How does poverty influence dietary choices in Scotland?
Poverty forces people to prioritise cheaper, unhealthy foods over nutritious options
96
What is the government’s recommendation for fruit and vegetable consumption in Scotland?
The recommendation is to eat five portions of fruits and vegetables daily
97
How do personal food choices contribute to obesity rates in Scotland?
Many Scots choose unhealthy, convenient fast food options, which increase obesity risk
98
What is the role of socio-economic conditions in food choices?
Economic difficulties and the cost of healthy food influence people’s dietary choices
99
How does the marketing of unhealthy foods affect obesity rates?
The marketing of unhealthy foods makes them more appealing, especially to those in lower-income communities
100
What does the '5-a-day' campaign promote?
It encourages individuals to eat five portions of fruits and vegetables per day
101
What is the relationship between individual choices and obesity rates?
Personal dietary and exercise choices significantly impact obesity rates, but these choices are influenced by socio-economic factors
102
How does gender influence health outcomes?
Gender influences health through differences in medical attention, access to care, and the impact of gender-specific health issues
103
What health issues are critical for women?
Issues such as access to contraception, high-quality maternity care, and mental health conditions like depression are critical for women
104
How many more years of good health do men in Scotland's affluent areas have compared to those in deprived regions?
Men in affluent areas have 23.8 more years of good health
105
How many more years of good health do women in Scotland's affluent areas have compared to those in deprived regions?
Women in affluent areas have 22.6 more years of good health
106
What is the gender disparity in life expectancy in Scotland?
Women have a longer life expectancy but often face a greater burden of poor health in later years
107
What percentage of deaths in Scotland from alcohol-related conditions are men?
Approximately two-thirds of alcohol-related deaths are men
108
How much more likely are men to be admitted to hospitals for alcohol-related illnesses?
Men are 2.3 times more likely than women to be admitted
109
Which conditions are more prevalent in men compared to women in Scotland?
Coronary heart disease, strokes, and diabetes
110
What percentage of men were overweight in 2021 in Scotland?
70% of men were classified as overweight in 2021
111
What mental health condition is twice as common in women compared to men?
Depression
112
What percentage of alcohol-related deaths are men?
Approximately two-thirds of alcohol-related deaths are men
113
What percentage of suicides in Scotland are by men?
75% of all suicides in Scotland involve men
114
What percentage of women experience chronic pain in Scotland?
Around 30% of women experience chronic pain
115
How much more likely are women to have autoimmune diseases compared to men?
Women are more likely, with 1 in 12 women affected versus 1 in 20 men
116
What is a key reproductive health issue for women in Scotland?
Around 16% of women experience complications during pregnancy or childbirth
117
How does societal expectation affect women’s health in Scotland?
Women may prioritize caregiving responsibilities over their own health, impacting their well-being
118
How does poverty impact suicide rates in Scotland?
People in deprived areas are three times more likely to die by suicide
119
What unique mental health challenges do women face in impoverished communities?
Women in poverty may experience higher rates of depression and anxiety, often exacerbated by caregiving roles
120
How does poverty affect health outcomes for men in Scotland?
Men in impoverished areas face higher rates of alcohol-related illnesses and chronic conditions
121
What is 'toxic masculinity' and how does it affect men's health?
Toxic masculinity is when men suppress emotions and avoid seeking help, leading to mental health issues and neglecting their health
122
What percentage of suicides in Scotland are by men?
Over 75% of suicides in Scotland are committed by men
123
What impact do gender expectations have on men’s mental health?
Gender expectations, such as being the primary breadwinner, can exacerbate mental health issues, especially for men in poverty
124
How does poverty affect men’s mental health and health outcomes?
Poverty creates significant stress, leading to mental health issues, including higher suicide rates among men
125
How does the societal expectation to be a provider affect men’s health?
The pressure to be a provider, particularly in poverty, leads to feelings of inadequacy, worsening mental health
126
What are the rates of suicide in deprived areas of Scotland compared to less deprived areas?
In deprived areas, individuals are three times more likely to die by suicide than those in less deprived areas
127
How do economic factors contribute to men’s health outcomes?
Economic hardship increases mental health strain and leads to higher suicide rates and other health issues
128
What role does poverty play in shaping men's health outcomes?
Poverty plays a critical role by exacerbating mental health issues and increasing the likelihood of suicide and health-related problems
129
What is the main reason for higher suicide rates among men in Scotland?
Societal pressure to conform to traditional male roles, like being the provider, creates stress, especially for men in poverty
130
How can addressing economic factors improve men’s health outcomes?
Addressing economic factors such as poverty can reduce stress, improve mental health, and lower suicide rates
