Poverty a conduit to poor health

ALMOST 6,000 people die prematurely in Ireland every year because of poverty and inequality, the Institute of Public Health director said yesterday.

Dr Jane Wilde said that the institute’s research had revealed a link between poverty and poor health that must be abolished.

“Inequality and poverty are unnecessary - they can be addressed through concentrated social and political action. Money must be put into primary health care and disadvantaged communities must get easily accessible health services,” said Dr Wilde.