Uninsured Rate Increases

11/13/2010

Data published this month by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that 59 million Americans went without health insurance for at least part of this year.

The findings reveal that being uninsured isn't just a problem for those in poverty. In fact, a number of those lacking insurance can be classified as middle class. Income levels aren't the only misconception brought forth by the research.

CDC Director Dr. Thomas Frieden says the findings debunk the myth that its only healthy people that don't bother with health insurance.

"Uninsured people with asthma were five times more likely not to get needed care with diabetes and hypertension who are six times more likely to not get needed care," Frieden says.

Obtaining affordable healthcare coverage can be particularly difficult for those who make too much to qualify for government-sponsored programs but find that purchasing coverage on their own takes up too much from their income.

Refraining from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption and getting enough exercise are a couple of ways people can reduce their likelihood of getting some illnesses. Type 2 diabetes, for example, is more prevalent among those who are overweight. 

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