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Res Publica - Journal of Undergraduate Research

Abstract

This paper explores the relationship between family income and health outcomes for children across counties in the United States, focusing on low birth weight as a key indicator. Income disparities among counties often correlate with varying health outcomes for children, particularly those born into lower-income families who lack the resources for adequate healthcare. Utilizing data from 3,113 counties, I examine the impact of income, education, rural versus urban location, healthcare access, and other social determinants on children's health, with a specific focus on birth weight. The findings reveal a strong negative correlation between median household income and low birth weight, suggesting that lower income is associated with poorer health outcomes. While the results underscore the importance of income in shaping health disparities, they also suggest that addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach, considering factors such as race, education, and local healthcare infrastructure.

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