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The significant impact of poverty on health outcomes, specifically the increase in health disparities, is rooted in the systemic challenges faced by individuals living in poverty. People in these situations often encounter a lack of resources that can directly affect their health, such as nutritious food, safe housing, and educational opportunities.

When poverty prevails, individuals may experience higher rates of chronic diseases, mental health issues, and limited access to preventive care. This creates a noticeable gap between those in lower socioeconomic groups and those with greater resources. The effects of these disparities are multiplicative; for example, poorer health outcomes can lead to increased healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and diminished quality of life, further perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

Poverty also limits access to healthcare services. Individuals may face barriers such as transportation issues, inability to afford care, and lack of insurance, which exacerbates their health issues and leads to worse outcomes compared to their more affluent counterparts. Thus, the relationship between poverty and health disparities is well-documented, illustrating how socioeconomic status significantly influences overall health.