U.S. Spending On Income Assistance: $185.5 Billion In FY2016

Poverty and poor health have a strong link. Empirical evidence suggests that the higher an individual’s income, the better their health status—and there is no threshold where higher income does not equal better health. Individuals with lower incomes are found to have increased levels of morbidity, mortality, and risk-taking behaviors.

Also important to an individual’s health status are the resources available in their community. For example, when individuals do not have access to transportation, healthy food options, or health care services within their community, health status declines. Psychosocial effects also play a role in an individual . . .