A recent study found that females from low-income households are less likely to seek medical advice or schedule routine check-ups.
The study consisted of 10,650 females - those on an income of up to £25,000 were considered less ‘health literate’ than their higher earning peers.
For example, 95% of those with salaries of more than £40,000 a year said they have had health screenings for issues such as cervical cancer and high blood pressure. On the other hand, one in 10 women from low income backgrounds have never been for these appointments.
An additional 15% of the same socio-economic group said they did not attend preventive healthcare sessions as they felt they were unnecessary.
Other key findings?
10% more of women from wealthier households said they knew where to access health and wellbeing resources.
72% of lower earners said they were at ease communicating with healthcare staff, compared to 81% of higher earners.
30% of lower salary females reported experiencing daily pain, including migraines and muscle aches, compared to just 10% of high-income individuals.
The research, which was led by Hologic, was designed to find out more about women’s experiences within the health sector, from routine appointments, to opinions on the wider treatment of women seeking medical attention across the UK.
It is hoped this kind of data can help make the gender health gap that bit smaller, and help the medical world make well-informed decisions when it comes to improving equality.
Tim Simpson, general manager, Hologic UK & Ireland, said: “Your level of wealth shouldn’t impact your access to diagnosis and treatment but the new research shows it does.
“Women are the cornerstone of families, communities and economies and more must be done to tackle the stark health inequalities they face across the UK.”
MCM Medical celebrates the positive work Hologic is doing to improve quality of life for women and hopes to see a more inclusive healthcare sector as a result.
After a new healthcare career? You’ve come to the right place! Drop our dedicated team an email via info@mcmmedical.co.uk to learn more about our current vacancies.
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