HMS, HIC EQ-Bank 022

Describe how socioeconomic status can contribute to risky health behaviours for Australians, and provide three specific examples. (5 marks)

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Sample Answer

Lower socioeconomic status often correlates with reduced access to health information, leading to lower health literacy and fewer resources to make informed health decisions.
Example 1: Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may engage in higher rates of tobacco smoking as a coping mechanism for financial and social stressors.
Financial constraints can limit access to healthier food options, recreational facilities, and preventative healthcare, creating barriers to adopting protective health behaviours.
Example 2: Food insecurity in lower-income households can lead to reliance on nutrient-poor foods that are often cheaper and more accessible. This can contribute to higher rates of obesity and related health conditions in these communities.
Living environments associated with socioeconomic disadvantage often feature higher density of alcohol outlets and gambling venues, resulting in increased exposure and normalisation of these activities.
Example 3: Young people in disadvantaged communities have greater access to alcohol and gambling facilities, leading to earlier initiation and higher rates of binge drinking and excess alcohol consumption.

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Sample Answer

Lower socioeconomic status often correlates with reduced access to health information, leading to lower health literacy and fewer resources to make informed health decisions.
Example 1: Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may engage in higher rates of tobacco smoking as a coping mechanism for financial and social stressors.
Financial constraints can limit access to healthier food options, recreational facilities, and preventative healthcare, creating barriers to adopting protective health behaviours.
Example 2: Food insecurity in lower-income households can lead to reliance on nutrient-poor foods that are often cheaper and more accessible. This can contribute to higher rates of obesity and related health conditions in these communities.
Living environments associated with socioeconomic disadvantage often feature higher density of alcohol outlets and gambling venues, resulting in increased exposure and normalisation of these activities.
Example 3: Young people in disadvantaged communities have greater access to alcohol and gambling facilities, leading to earlier initiation and higher rates of binge drinking and excess alcohol consumption.