- Poverty is associated with worse disease outcomes in various conditions like cancer, heart disease, and psychiatric disorders.
- Researchers in Massachusetts conducted a study where cash benefits were given to individuals living in poverty through a lottery system.
- The study found that recipients of cash benefits had fewer emergency department visits, particularly for substance use disorder.
- While there was a slight increase in outpatient visits, there were no major differences in individual health markers like blood pressure or weight.
- The cash benefit program saved about $450 per person in healthcare costs over 9 months, showing potential benefits in alleviating poverty-related health issues.
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