The environments where we live, learn, work, and play affect our access to healthy food and opportunities for physical activity which, along with genetic factors and personal choices, shape our health and our risk of being overweight and obese.
Better educated individuals live longer, healthier lives than those with less education, and their children are more likely to thrive. This is true even when factors like income are taken into account.
Employment provides income and, often, benefits that can support healthy lifestyle choices. Unemployment and underemployment limit these choices, and negatively affect both quality of life and overall health. The economic condition of a community and an individual’s level of educational attainment both play important roles in shaping employment opportunities.
