Quick questions on Health inequities by socioeconomic status in Australia: HSC PDHPE Equity and Health

Life expectancy in the most socioeconomically disadvantaged 20% of Australians is around 5-7 years lower than the most advantaged 20%. The gap has not closed substantially over the last two decades.

Lower SES Australians have higher rates of smoking, harmful alcohol use, physical inactivity, poor diet, and obesity. The gradient is consistent across measures.

Lower SES Australians have higher rates of preventable cancers (lung, oral, oesophageal) and lower screening participation. Cancer mortality is higher despite similar incidence for some cancers because diagnosis happens later and treatment access is poorer.

Rates of psychological distress are around 2x higher in the lowest SES quintile. Suicide rates are higher in lower-SES communities, particularly for men.

Children in lower-SES households have higher rates of dental disease, asthma, developmental delay, hospitalisation for preventable conditions, and worse educational outcomes.

Higher educational attainment correlates strongly with better health throughout life. Year 12 completion is the single threshold most strongly associated with later-life health.

Employment provides income, routine, social contact, identity, and skills. Unemployment is consistently associated with worse mental and physical health.

Income enables almost every health-promoting decision. Healthy food costs more than processed food in Australia. Private health insurance, allied health, dental care, gym memberships, sports participation all cost money.

Housing is the most expensive single category for most Australian households and a strong determinant of health.