Poverty and Cardiovascular Health in Haiti: An Analysis by Community Type

Bogentson Andre, State University of Haiti

Summary This study examines the impact of poverty on cardiovascular health in urban and rural Haitian communities. Poverty is often assessed using economic indicators such as income, neglecting aspects like the possession of agricultural assets, which are essential in rural areas. Data collected in 2024 shows that nearly 60% of participants in a national survey have high systolic blood pressure, an indicator of cardiovascular diseases. Economic disparities are also significant: 42% of respondents earn less than 18,000 gourdes per month, reflecting widespread precariousness. The results reveal that in urban areas, monetary poverty is associated with an increase in hypertension, while in rural areas, the possession of agricultural assets contributes to better cardiovascular health. The study concludes that a multidimensional approach to poverty is necessary to understand these variations and develop public health strategies tailored to each context and type of impact.

Keywords: Health and Morbidity, Mortality and Longevity, Population and Development

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