Socioeconomic Inequalties in Health in the UK

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Humans are mortal beings, therefore with life comes death; this is a certainty. What is not so certain is the quality of life which one will lead thereto; and the variances they will face in life which will underwrite a person’s health. Health, which can be measured, regulates the quality and longevity of people’s lives. People have long since philosophised that it is “luck of the draw” as to who are inflicted with illness or disease. In fact, through research and consensus reports, analysis has concluded that social, economic and environmental influences are contributing factors. This essay will explore some of the main issues regarding health and consequences of lifestyle choices. Furthermore, recognition and critique will be focused on the principal reports and recommendations therein regarding health inequalities. ‘Health’ is the ‘absence of disease’ within the physical and mental entities of the body and mind. This is a definition given in the literal sense of the word, although what it essentially translates to for one individual may not mean the same to another. A person can be unhealthy or lead an unhealthy lifestyle without the affliction of disease. Kathryn Mansfield has a subjective view and her account is relatively holistic and all-encompassing of her potential, as a person in body and mind, “By health, I mean the power to live a full adult, living, breathing life in close contact with what I love. I want to be all that I am capable of becoming.” An individual’s standard of living can affect the levels of their body functions; possibly slowing down metabolism and ultimately it can have negative effects on morbidity* and mortality** rates. It is important during the study of health inequalities that these ... ... middle of paper ... ...es; Choosing Health; Change4life. ‘Saving Lives: Our Healthier Nation’ is a white paper which was initiated in 1999. The Department of Health (DOH) ordered strategies aimed at reducing ill-health with specific attention to cancer, coronary heart disease and stroke, accidents, and mental health. £21billion over 10years was given to the NHS to ensure a target of 20% reduction in deaths associated with these conditions. Works Cited http://legalx.wordpress.com/2010/09/14/inequality-%E2%80%93-why-it-happens-how-we-combat-it-and-its-socially-corrosive-effects/ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1679935/pdf/bmj00193-0029.pdf http://www.archive.official-documents.co.uk/document/doh/ih/contents.htm http://www.theguardian.com/society/2013/oct/16/charity-inquiry-food-bank-use-triples http://www.archive.official-documents.co.uk/document/doh/ih/part2e.htm

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