Low levels of education linked to poor health
People with low education are more likely to suffer from life-threatening conditions such as lung cancer, stroke and infectious diseases, it emerged.
The cross-border Institute of Public Health in Ireland also found links between a lack of qualifications and a range of illnesses including back pain, diabetes, asthma, dementia and depression.
Meanwhile, the review revealed those with higher education are likely to consume more fruit, vegetables and fibre, eat less fat and not smoke.
Dr Jane Wilde, institute chief executive, said targeting literacy and early school leaving and improving education among the most disadvantaged groups can improve health.
“A strong positive relationship exists between education and health outcomes whether measured by death rates, illness, health behaviours or health knowledge,” said Dr Wilde.
“If our goal is to create equality and fairness for all members of society, then we need to invest at the earliest possible age. And funding needs to be channelled particularly to those who are most vulnerable.”
The publication — Health Impacts of Education: A Review — featured the unemployed, prisoners, the age of schoolleavers, gender and cultural backgrounds of people on both sides of the border.
Report co-author Owen Metcalfe, the institute’s associate director, said early education intervention was key. “In simple terms this report tells us that the more educated you are the less likely you are to smoke; the more likely you are to quit if you do; the more likely you are to have a balanced diet; and the more likely you are to join clubs, societies and play sport, all of which are good for your health.
“Greater levels of education, particularly at an early stage, can lead to improved chances of finding secure, well paid employment, with subsequent health benefits,” he said.
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