Given that individuals from lower socioeconomic classes often experience higher mortality rates and increased prevalence of chronic diseases, what underlying factor most significantly contributes to these health disparities?

One of the main factors that contributes to health disparities among individuals from lower socioeconomic classes is access to healthcare. People in these communities often lack health insurance or the financial means to afford medical care, which means they may not get the necessary check-ups, treatments, or preventive care. For example, someone who cannot afford regular doctor visits might miss early signs of a chronic disease like diabetes, leading to more severe health problems later on. Additionally, lower socioeconomic status can limit access to healthy food options and safe living environments, further impacting health. This combination of limited healthcare access and other social factors creates a cycle of health issues that can be hard to break.