Why were men more affected than women by socioeconomic status?

The study found a significant link between low SES and death risk in men but not women, though the exact reasons are unclear. Differences in health-seeking behaviour, lifestyle habits, and social support may play a role.

What should I do if I can't afford my diabetes care?

Talk to your doctor or diabetes educator about lower-cost options. Many healthcare providers can connect you with assistance programs, subsidised medications, and community health resources.

Low Income Increases Death Risk in Diabetic Men

Key takeaways

✓Lower income and education linked to higher death risk in people with diabetes
✓Men with diabetes face significantly greater mortality risk from low socioeconomic status than women
✓Findings highlight the need for targeted support programs for lower-income men with diabetes

Quick specs

Journal	BMC public health
Year	2025
PMID	41339794

What This Study Found

Researchers looked at how income, education, and where people live (urban vs. rural) affect survival rates in Chinese adults aged 45+ who have diabetes or prediabetes.

Key Findings

The study followed over 5,000 adults from 2011 to 2018. People with lower socioeconomic status (SES) had a 52–54% higher risk of dying from any cause compared to those with higher SES. Importantly, this effect was much stronger in men:

Men with medium SES had a 69% higher risk of death
Men with low SES had a 63% higher risk of death
Women showed no statistically significant difference across SES levels

Why This Matters for Patients

This research highlights that social and economic factors — not just medical ones — play a major role in diabetes survival, especially for men. Access to healthcare, healthy food, and education can all influence outcomes.

What You Can Do

If financial barriers are affecting your diabetes care, speak with your healthcare team. Many clinics offer assistance programs, low-cost medications, and community resources to help manage diabetes regardless of income level.

References & Sources

Frequently asked questions

Yes. This study found that people with diabetes or prediabetes who have lower income, less education, or live in rural areas had a 52–54% higher risk of dying compared to those with higher socioeconomic status.

Editorial note

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diabetes management. Last reviewed: July 16, 2026 by the MDS Diabetes editorial team.

What to do next

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Low Income Raises Death Risk in Diabetic Men, Study Finds