The Impact of Poverty on Individuals
Poverty has profound effects on individuals, including the following:
- Malnutrition: Individuals living in poverty often face food scarcity, and when food is available, it may not be nutritious or healthy. For example, Rwanda, located in Africa, is one of the countries where malnutrition is prevalent, with many children suffering from severe hunger that can lead to death.
- Lack of Access to Healthcare: Those in poverty frequently cannot afford to visit a doctor for treatment or purchase necessary medications, leading to untreated health issues.
- Homelessness: Many individuals in poverty struggle to secure stable housing, resulting in living in shelters or on the streets.
- Begging and Destructive Behaviors: Unfortunately, poverty can drive individuals to resort to begging or engage in illegal activities such as theft, prostitution, or drug trafficking.
The Societal Effects of Poverty
Poverty is a significant contributor to many societal tensions. Income inequality can polarize a nation, particularly when wealth is distributed inequitably among its citizens, resulting in a disproportionate concentration of resources among a small segment of the population. Consequently, developed countries strive to maintain stability by fostering a robust middle class. Thus, poverty represents a critical threat to the stability of entire nations.
Additional Consequences of Poverty
Poverty is closely associated with heightened risks of disease, epidemics, and premature death. For instance, infants born in impoverished areas typically weigh less than those born to affluent families, often weighing under 200 grams. Moreover, they face a higher likelihood of developing chronic illnesses during childhood, experiencing disabilities, or tragically, facing mortality at birth. Poor health throughout life can significantly reduce an individual’s life expectancy.