Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which statement best describes the relationship between poverty and environmental exposures?

1. Families in poverty have sufficient resources for safety

2. Poverty increases access to clean environments

3. Environmental justice issues are more prevalent in impoverished families

4. Poverty has no impact on environmental conditions

The correct answer is: Environmental justice issues are more prevalent in impoverished families

The statement highlighting that environmental justice issues are more prevalent in impoverished families accurately reflects the complex interplay between socioeconomic status and environmental health. Families living in poverty often face a higher likelihood of encountering environmental hazards, such as exposure to pollution, unsafe drinking water, and inadequate waste disposal. These challenges arise because economically disadvantaged communities frequently reside near industrial areas, landfills, or other sources of environmental toxins. Moreover, impoverished communities may lack the political influence or resources to advocate for safe and clean environments. This can lead to a cycle whereby environmental degradation perpetuates health disparities, since the adverse effects of poor environmental conditions can exacerbate existing health issues. Previous studies have consistently demonstrated that factors such as income and education level significantly correlate with environmental quality, thus supporting the idea of environmental justice. In contrast, other statements suggest that poverty somehow provides safety or access to clean environments, which does not align with the reality of many impoverished communities. Similarly, the notion that poverty has no impact on environmental conditions overlooks the established relationship between socioeconomic factors and environmental risk exposure.