New Canadian Medical Association Survey Results

On August 17, 2009, the Canadian Medical Association released their National Report Card on Health Care. The findings indicate that education and income are key social determinants of healthy living habits in that those with lower levels of education and income are less likely than their respective counterparts to partake in a number of healthy living activities on a daily or more frequent basis, such as eating the recommended number of fruits and vegetables and engaging in outdoor activity. The largest differences can be seen with respect to eating habits, education, and physical activity whereby those who consider themselves to have healthy eating habits, those with higher levels of education and those who consider themselves to be active are more likely than their respective counterparts to describe their health status as excellent or very good. Canadians were asked whether financial concerns stemming from the economic downturn have led them to take any of several actions adverse to their health. The results show that the economic downturn is hurting the health of Canadians with lower income and lower education the most.

http://beta.images.theglobeandmail.com/archive/00178/CMA_s_9th_Annual_Na_178243a.pdf