People with lower levels of education are more likely to die at a younger age and are at greater risk of poorer health throughout their lives, according to a review published today.
The link between educational level and health was highlighted today in Health Impacts of Education: a Review,which was carried out by the Institute of Public Health in Ireland (IPH) and examined international evidence relating to the impact of education on health.
The survey found that low education level is associated with increased risk of death from lung cancer, stroke, cardiovascular disease and infectious diseases.
Associations have also been found between education and other illnesses such as back pain, diabetes, asthma, dementia and depression.
Those with higher levels of education are likely to consume more fruit, vegetables and fibre and less fat than those with less education; are less likely to smoke and more likely to quit if they do; and are more likely to be employed, which is better for health than being unemployed, the survey found.
According to the IPH, improving education among the most disadvantaged has the potential to make a positive impact on health inequalities. The report found that targeting literacy and early school leaving are particularly effective ways to improve health.
Commenting on the findings, IPH chief executive Dr Jane Wilde, said: “If our goal is to create equality and fairness for all members of society, then we need to invest at the earliest possible age. Funding needs to be channelled particularly to those who are most vulnerable.”
Dr. Wilde continued: “While it is clear that education benefits health, such benefits do not accrue equally to all population groups in society. . . . This review shows that young people from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds and young people from some ethnic groups are less likely to gain health benefits from education."
She called for a "systematic and co-ordinated approach" from relevant government departments.
IPH associate director and report co-author Owen Metcalfe said: “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.”
The review also highlighted the benefits of all island co-operation through the departments of health and education in the Republic and the North.