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Unstable Housing Leads to Poorer Health Outcomes

Published on: March 06, 2024. Updated on: March 07, 2024.

Renters who faced eviction during the COVID-19 pandemic experienced excessively high mortality rates compared to other groups, according to a recent study. Additionally, mortality rates are increasing rapidly for people experiencing homelessness, particularly in terms of drug and alcohol-related deaths. Housing impacts health outcomes and can further exacerbate health disparities, particularly as it becomes more expensive amidst America’s housing shortage.

Health Affairs’ Housing and Health issue includes research on a range of issues, including homelessness, gentrification, and the impact of housing on cancer outcomes. The issue also includes strategies to support health through housing, such as through primary care and financial assistance interventions.

Sources

Overview: Garcia C, Doran K, Kushel M. Homelessness And Health: Factors, Evidence, Innovations That Work, And Policy Recommendations. Health Affairs. 2024.

Overdoses: Bradford D, Lozano-Rojas F. Higher Rates Of Homelessness Are Associated With Increases In Mortality From Accidental Drug And Alcohol Poisonings. Health Affairs. 2024.

Pandemic Evictions: Graetz N, Hepburn P, Gershenson C, et al. Examining Excess Mortality Associated With the COVID-19 Pandemic for Renters Threatened With Eviction. JAMA. 2024.