When money is tight, ‘purchase happiness’ is low
A study by Fuqua School of Business found that people who feel financially constrained experience less
Socioeconomics
Articles tagged with Socioeconomics
Examining association of net worth, blood pressure in African American women
Researchers studied 384 African American women aged 30-46 with 48-hour blood pressure monitoring. Being in debt was linked to higher daytime and nighttime blood pressure and increased risk of sustained hypertension.
February research news from the Ecological Society of America
Researchers tracked a Mongolian gazelle traveling over 18,000 km, while new studies on raccoon movement inform improved vaccination strategies against wildlife disease. In contrast, urban bird species exhibit varying body weights and lifespans based on city characteristics.
Understanding neighborhood dynamics associated with gun violence during COVID-19
A new study found that neighborhood-level gun violence dynamics in Philadelphia during the COVID-19 pandemic were linked to changes in drug market and police activity. Average shooting rates increased after the pandemic began, but this increase occurred at different rates for different neighborhoods.
Researchers from the GIST use artificial intelligence to identify potential unsafe locations in cities
GIST researchers propose a new strategy for crime prevention using artificial intelligence, trained on a large-scale dataset of deviant incident reports and corresponding images. The model, called DevianceNet, can accurately classify and detect deviant places, making it a useful tool in urban safety development.
Eating vegetables does not protect against cardiovascular disease, finds large-scale study
A large-scale study of 400,000 adults in the UK Biobank found no evidence that eating vegetables reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. The researchers controlled for various confounding factors and found that any apparent effect was largely due to residual confounding.
COVID-19 patients’ ZIP codes may affect hospitalization outcomes
A study found that COVID-19 patients from high-vulnerability neighborhoods presented with more severe illness and required intensive care, but did not experience higher mortality rates. Researchers suggest policies targeting socially vulnerable neighborhoods to improve access to testing, treatment, and vaccination.
Pandemic’s financial impact worse in middle-income nations
A study of 24,506 participants from 16 countries found that middle-income nations were disproportionately affected by the pandemic, with a higher risk of financial difficulties. People with lower educational attainment in lower-middle-income countries fared worse than those in high-income countries.
Years of life lost during the pandemic significantly higher in deprived areas
The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on deprived areas in England and Wales, resulting in significantly higher excess years of life lost compared to affluent areas. The study found 11 times more excess deaths in 15-44 year olds in the most deprived areas.
Businesses run by minorities, women and vets disproportionately affected by pandemic, NIST, NOAA study finds
A new study found that businesses run by minorities, women, and veterans were more likely to experience negative effects from the pandemic than non-HUGO businesses. The researchers analyzed responses from over 1,350 businesses and found that demographic factors played a significant role in determining a business's resilience during the...
Sanctuary city policies linked to lower crime rates in recent years
Research found sanctuary city policies decrease crime rates compared to counties that comply with ICE detainer requests. Implementing a sanctuary policy is associated with a significant drop in violent crimes, providing evidence of increased law enforcement effectiveness and decreased crime costs.
WVU researcher examines interstate characteristics associated with self-injury mortality
A national study found that states with higher labor underutilization, non-Hispanic white populations, and opioid prescriptions had higher SIM rates. States with centralized medicolegal death investigation systems detected more SIM cases due to toxicologic testing.
PSU study challenges idea that college degree is still the great equalizer
A Portland State University study suggests that rising tuition and debt burdens limit higher education's power to reduce socioeconomic disparities. College graduates from lower-income families are more likely to hold large educational debt, which can negatively impact their financial investment and savings.
nTIDE January 2022 Jobs Report: People with disabilities build on job gains to break historic records
According to the nTIDE January 2022 Jobs Report, people with disabilities have continued to gain employment, with an increase in employment-to-population ratio and labor force participation rate. Their numbers are now above historic highs, exceeding those of their non-disabled peers.
Poor housing conditions linked to respiratory health issues in young First Nations children
A study found frequent rates of respiratory infections and wheezing in young First Nations children due to poor housing conditions, including inadequate ventilation, mold, and wood smoke contaminants. The researchers urge action on improving housing and infrastructure in communities to benefit the overall health of First Nations peoples.
Living environment affects child’s weight development from birth to school age
A new study found that living in a disadvantaged neighbourhood increases a child's risk of developing overweight by school age. Children born in less affluent areas were more likely to gain weight and develop obesity, even when controlling for other factors.
UK rates of nearsightedness have increased significantly over time
A new study of UK Biobank adults found significantly increased rates of nearsightedness, particularly in children. The study suggests changing environmental factors and gene-environment interactions may be to blame for the rising trend.
For new mothers, feeling low in social status poses risk to health
A recent study published by the American Psychological Association found that new mothers who perceive themselves as lower in social status have worse health outcomes one year after childbirth. The study highlights the importance of subjective social status in maternal health disparities.
New research sheds light on COVID-19 vaccine inequities in California
A new study from USC researchers sheds light on COVID-19 vaccine inequities in California, revealing disparities in vaccination rates among vulnerable populations. The study suggests that targeted community outreach and improved vaccine access can help reduce these disparities.
Higher olive oil intake associated with lower risk of CVD mortality
A study found that consuming more than 7 grams of olive oil per day is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative, and respiratory disease mortality. Replacing margarine, butter, mayonnaise, and dairy fat with olive oil was also linked to improved health outcomes.
How circular waste management systems can benefit the environment
A new study reveals that circular waste management systems can effectively reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants, with the potential to eliminate open burning of waste by 2050. The researchers estimate that this could account for almost a quarter of global methane emissions.
Bringing the arts to STEM fields: Creative exercise helps first-year college students explore majors
A new chapter explores how bringing arts to STEM fields can help students explore their interests and understand representation in children's literature. The exercise, which paired picture book creation with first-year writing lessons, led to changes in students' views on diversity and inclusion.
nTIDE December 2021 Jobs Report: Employment remains above historic levels for people with disabilities
The job numbers for people with disabilities remained above pre-pandemic levels in December, according to the National Trends in Disability Employment (nTIDE) report. The employment-to-population ratio for working-age people with disabilities decreased slightly from 34.6 percent in November to 33.6 percent in December.
Orphanhood declines with rise in HIV antiretroviral therapy and male circumcision
Research found marked decreases in orphanhood, especially double orphanhood, among adolescents in Rakai, Uganda, corresponding with the rise of antiretroviral therapy and male medical circumcision. The study suggests that HIV combination prevention reduces mortality among adults and orphanhood among their adolescent children.
First peer-reviewed study on excess mortality in India during the COVID-19 pandemic published in Lancet Infectious Diseases
The study found that excess deaths occurred at a rate of 5.2 per 1000 residents, representing a 41% increase over typical mortality levels. Excess mortality was substantially higher in older age groups and communities with lower socioeconomic status during the second wave.
nTIDE November 2021 COVID Update: People with disabilities making headway in labor market’s ‘new normal’
Unemployment rates for people with disabilities decreased in November, dipping below pre-pandemic levels for the first time. Progress is attributed to rises in employment-to-population ratio and labor force participation rate, with some individuals returning to their previous jobs or starting new ones.
New vaccine allocation model focuses on fairness and diversity
Researchers developed a fair-diverse allocation optimization framework to optimize the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, treatments, and testing supplies. The model aims to get limited resources to the most vulnerable subgroups while ensuring fairness and diversity, independent of demographic background.
Intelligence, religious and political beliefs are connected to the accuracy of UK adults’ population estimates
A study found that UK adults' accuracy in estimating national statistics is influenced by their intelligence, religiousness, and political beliefs. Respondents were most accurate when estimating characteristics like vegetarianism and car ownership, but least accurate for minority groups like homosexuals.
Heart disease-protective diabetes drug not used equitably, study finds
A recent study found significant inequities in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA), a medication typically used for treating diabetes, among different racial and ethnic groups. The study, published in JAMA Health Forum, showed that Black patients were 19% less likely to have a GLP-1 RA prescription compared to white patients.
Protective effect of education against midlife mental health struggle waning for Americans
Research reveals that American middle-aged adults experience worse mental health than their peers in other countries, while the protective effect of education wanes. Education previously shielded against depression and memory difficulties, but its benefits are now diminishing.
College-in-prison program found to reduce recidivism significantly
A new study found that a college-in-prison program significantly reduced recidivism rates among participants, with rates falling by 38% across racial groups. Higher levels of program participation correlated closely with lower rates of recidivism, addressing racial inequality in prison populations.
Public school closures increasing in cities, but affected neighborhoods differ regionally
Researchers found that neighborhoods with greater racial and socioeconomic disparities are more likely to experience closures, but suburbs with gentrification show different patterns. The study suggests that the effects of school closures depend on the types of neighborhoods affected.
nTIDE November 2021 Jobs Report: Historic employment gains continue for people with disabilities
The nTIDE November 2021 Jobs Report reveals historic employment gains for people with disabilities, with the employment-to-population ratio increasing to 34.6% and labor force participation rate rising to 37.7%. These gains surpass pre-pandemic levels and historic highs.
NYC has some of the nation’s largest disparities in cervical cancer rates
The study found that cervical cancer rates in NYC neighborhoods with low socioeconomic status are significantly higher than those with high socioeconomic status, highlighting the need for neighborhood-level interventions to increase access to preventive services.
Association between neighborhood socioeconomic inequality, cervical cancer rates in New York City
A population-based study found a significant association between neighborhood socioeconomic inequality and cervical cancer rates in NYC. The study revealed that low-socioeconomic status neighborhoods had higher cervical cancer incidence rates compared to higher-socioeconomic status neighborhoods.
Cervical cancer rates for women highest in New York City’s lowest socioeconomic neighborhoods
Research conducted by Brigham and Women's Hospital found that cervical cancer rates are significantly higher in low SES neighborhoods of New York City. The study analyzed data from two databases and calculated a 73 percent greater risk of cervical cancer in these neighborhoods compared to high-SES areas.
Does wealth always lead to a good education? New study proposes new model for predicting student success globally
A new study published in Frontiers argues that lumping individual factors together equally under socioeconomic status omits crucial data for understanding gaps in education. The research team found that relations between student achievement and socioeconomic factors look very different in different countries.
Access to COVID-19 vaccines in countries hosting clinical trials
A recent study found that low-, middle-, and high-income countries hosting COVID-19 vaccine trials received proportionately more doses of vaccines. High-income countries were able to fully vaccinate their populations due to the higher dose allocation, raising concerns about unequal access to life-saving vaccines.
New research could help boost growth of clean cooking in sub-Saharan Africa
A new study demonstrates the importance of supply-side enhancements to increase clean fuel consumption in sub-Saharan Africa. Supply-side interventions such as shortening distances to retail points and improving access to multi-burner stoves are found to be crucial for accelerating growth of the clean cooking market.
Telemedicine use by socioeconomic status among patients with newly diagnosed cancer
A study of 16,000 patients with new cancer diagnoses found that those from higher socioeconomic backgrounds were more likely to use telemedicine in the months following their diagnosis. Higher socioeconomic groups also showed increased utilization of telemedicine services within 30 days of diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Slowing ahead
Researchers warn of a potential long-term economic slowdown in developed democracies, driven by factors such as aging populations, shifts to services, and debt. The team proposes a 'guided civic revival' approach to address this challenge, combining grassroots forces with government participation to promote social solidarity and unity.
Low education and income level increase risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
A nationwide observational study published in Circulation found that lower levels of income and education are associated with reduced chances of survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The study analyzed data from 31,373 cases of OHCA between 2010 and 2017, showing a correlation that was observed in both men and women.
Disparities in access to transcatheter aortic valve replacement in major metro areas
A Medicare claims data analysis revealed that TAVR programs in major metropolitan areas struggle to serve disadvantaged populations. Zip codes with higher proportions of Black and Hispanic patients had significantly lower rates of TAVR compared to more affluent neighborhoods.
Tech-based health and exercise programs less beneficial for users with low socio-economic status, study shows
A recent study found that digital health programs and apps are less effective in boosting physical activity among users with lower socio-economic status. Researchers analyzed over 14,000 studies and concluded that these interventions do not provide clear benefits for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Agriculture and conservation objectives do not have to be at odds
Integrating food production and biodiversity conservation in spatial planning can minimize trade-offs between nature and people. The study found that joint planning processes for rural development and biodiversity conservation are more ecologically effective and socioeconomically feasible than separate strategies. By dedicating at leas...
Disparities in COVID-19 outcomes
A review of 68 studies examining COVID-19 outcomes reveals disparities among patients from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The analysis found significant variations in health outcomes, hospitalization rates, and mortality across different demographic groups.
'Tuition myopia' may negatively impact students' financial future, study finds
A recent study by Indiana University Kelley School of Business reveals that students who choose low-cost, low-return colleges are more likely to default on their student loans and experience a higher chance of bankruptcy after graduation. In contrast, high-cost, high-return colleges result in lower lifetime income but also fewer defaults.
Dealing with a warming climate. For millions of people, air-conditioning is not an option
A new study reveals that by 2040, between 64 and 100 million households in India, Brazil, Mexico, and Indonesia will face cooling challenges, leading to potential discomfort. The study highlights the importance of considering household characteristics beyond income and climate in predicting air-conditioning adoption.
Study examines how governments inform public about pandemics
A study from the University of Texas at Dallas found that governments downplay pandemic severity if they prioritize economy over public health, while exaggerating it when prioritizing public health. The researchers suggest transparent information policies are key for balanced objectives.
Study explores the global distribution, trends and drivers of flash droughts
Researchers identified 'hotspots' for flash droughts globally, including regions with high agricultural production, and found that half of the contributing factor is a lack of rainfall and hot weather conditions. This study provides a foundation to build off and explore key questions regarding future trends of flash drought occurrence.
You and your 27 friends will kill someone
A new study reveals that consumption in G20 nations causes significant premature deaths worldwide, particularly among infants and elderly populations. The research estimates that the lifetime consumption of 28 people in G20 nations will result in one person's premature death.
THE LANCET: UK study of over a million births finds stark racial and social inequalities in pregnancy outcomes
A nationwide study of over 1 million births in England found large inequalities in pregnancy outcomes between ethnic and socioeconomic groups. The study suggests that addressing racism, discrimination, and improving women's social circumstances can reduce disparities in birth outcomes.
Socioeconomic barriers for women start early, impact health often
Women face unique socioeconomic barriers that set back their cardiovascular health early in life, increasing risk of heart attack and stroke. These disparities can be mitigated through policy changes, community support, and diversification within the cardiology workforce.
Study casts doubt on theory that women aren't as competitive as men
A new study suggests that women are just as competitive as men in competitions, and that their reluctance to take risks is not the cause of the gender wage gap. Researchers found that when given the option to share winnings with losers, women were more likely to compete and excel.
New analysis: More US adults identify as disabled; ethnic and socioeconomic disparities persist
A new analysis finds that 67 million US adults identify as disabled, with significant disparities among different socioeconomic and demographic groups. The study highlights the need for accurate data on disability to inform effective policies and solutions.
Existing product standards for off-grid solar systems could prove a barrier to India’s energy transition
Current product standards in India's off-grid solar industry are creating barriers to the country's energy transition, according to a recent study. The variation in quality requirements and testing procedures is resulting in mistrust among consumers and increased costs for manufacturers.
Poor parents receiving universal payments increase spending on kids
A Washington State University study found that low- and middle-income parents increased their spending on education, clothing, recreation, and electronics for their children after receiving lump sum payments. In contrast, high-income parents showed no significant increase in child-related expenditures.
Hazardous levels of alcohol consumption identified in African hunter-gatherer group
Researchers found that 44.3% of the Mbendjele BaYaka population had hazardous alcohol consumption, associated with mental and physical health harms like high blood pressure and increased diarrhoea rates. The study emphasizes the need for community involvement and socioeconomic changes to address the underlying drivers of poor health.
Mapping the impact of tiered pricing reform on China’s residential electricity use
A study in China finds that the country's tiered pricing reform has reduced residential electricity use by 6.5 kWh per household on a county-level basis, accounting for 6.1% of monthly usage prior to the reform. The policy change also shows promise as a tool for guiding residents to use electricity more efficiently.
How retirement impacts social support and wellbeing
A new study found that most people maintain their pre-retirement level of social support after retirement, with women and those with high social support experiencing an improvement in mental wellbeing. The research also shows an increase in life satisfaction for couples where either the man or woman retired.