The link between housing and health is profound, yet often overlooked in public health discussions. A home is far more than a physical shelter; it is the fundamental environment that dictates a person’s safety, stability, exposure to environmental hazards, and access to social support. The concept of “Better Housing, Higher Health” is a growing consensus among researchers and policymakers, asserting that investing in safe, affordable, and quality housing is one of the most effective forms of preventative medicine. Substandard, precarious, or unaffordable housing is a direct driver of chronic stress, infectious disease, and mental illness, demonstrating that your zip code is often a better predictor of health outcomes than your genetic code.
This article explores the critical mechanisms through which housing quality impacts human health, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies that recognize the home environment as a primary determinant of well-being. By improving the physical safety and financial … Read more