Health Status of Preschoolers Depending on the Socioeconomic Status

Abstract

Purpose: The current descriptive study examined the health and healthcare status of preschoolers in poverty group compared to those of comparison group. Method: Data were collected from 51 mothers in federal poverty group and 49 in low-income group and 200 mothers in normal income comparison group in one city. The instruments used for this study were Korean CBCL and health related questionnaire. Results: Public assistance group showed more low-birth-weight infants, developmental delay, and hospital admission experiences. Their compliance for vaccination and congenital metabolic disorder test were lower than those of comparison group. Preschoolers' behavior problems were not significantly different depending upon the income of the group. Conclusion: Preschoolers' health and healthcare status are affected by the socioeconomic characteristics of the family. It indicated an need for anticipatory guidance and early intervention that might help to prevent or ameliorate potential health problems in poverty.