Housing Affordability & Health: Survey in High-Stress Population
Introduction
Hong Kong is renowned for its vibrant economy and dense urban landscape. However, it also holds the dubious distinction of having the worst housing affordability problem in the world. This issue is particularly concerning given the significant impact that housing affordability can have on residents’ physical and mental health. Despite the severity of the problem, there is a notable lack of research exploring the relationship between housing affordability and health outcomes in Hong Kong. This knowledge gap is especially critical when considering the potential mediating effect of deprivation on this relationship. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing effective policies and interventions to improve the well-being of the high-stress population in Hong Kong.
Housing Affordability and Health: A Global Perspective
Globally, the connection between housing affordability and health outcomes has been a subject of increasing interest. Studies have shown that housing affordability can significantly influence physical and mental health. For instance, a systematic review found that interventions aimed at increasing housing affordability and stability were associated with improved health outcomes, although the evidence was often of low certainty. The review highlighted the need for further research to better understand the mechanisms through which housing affordability affects health and to identify effective strategies for mitigating these effects.
In the context of high-stress populations, the impact of housing affordability on health becomes even more pronounced. High levels of perceived stress have been linked to poorer overall physical and mental health, as well as an increased risk of premature death. Factors such as income instability, health issues, and food insecurity are key correlates of stress, and these factors are often exacerbated by housing affordability problems. Therefore, addressing housing affordability is not only a matter of economic policy but also a critical public health issue.
Methodology and Sample
To explore the relationship between housing affordability and health in Hong Kong, a stratified random sample of 1,978 Hong Kong adults was surveyed. This approach ensures that the sample is representative of the broader population, allowing for more reliable and generalizable findings. The survey included questions related to housing costs, income, and various aspects of health and lifestyle.
Measuring Housing Affordability
The residual-income approach was used to define housing affordability in this study. This method calculates the amount of income remaining after housing costs have been paid. It is considered a better indicator of housing affordability compared to the ratio-income approach, which measures housing costs as a proportion of household income. The residual-income approach provides a more accurate picture of a household’s ability to cover non-shelter necessities, which can vary significantly across different income levels.
Assessing Health-Related Quality of Life
To evaluate the impact of housing affordability on health, the Short-Form Health Survey version 2 (SF-12v2) was employed. This survey generates two summary measures: the physical component summary (PCS) and the mental component summary (MCS). These measures provide a comprehensive assessment of health-related quality of life, allowing researchers to examine both the physical and mental health dimensions.
Analytical Approach for Addressing High-stress Population
Multivariable linear regressions were performed to assess the associations between housing affordability and PCS and MCS scores. These analyses controlled for a range of sociodemographic, socioeconomic, and lifestyle factors to isolate the specific impact of housing affordability on health outcomes. Additionally, mediation analyses were conducted to explore the mediating role of deprivation in the relationship between housing affordability and health.
Findings and Implications Regarding High-stress Population
The results of this study highlight the significant impact of housing affordability on the health of high-stress populations in Hong Kong. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address housing affordability and improve health outcomes. By understanding the mediating role of deprivation, policymakers can develop more effective strategies to mitigate the negative health effects associated with housing affordability problems.
Conclusion
The relationship between housing affordability and health is complex and multifaceted. In Hong Kong, where housing affordability is a pressing issue, addressing this problem is crucial for improving the well-being of the high-stress population. Future research should continue to explore the mechanisms through which housing affordability affects health and identify innovative solutions to enhance housing affordability and stability. By doing so, we can work towards creating a healthier and more equitable society for all.
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