The Glasgow Effect

The Glasgow Effect refers to the significantly higher rates of poor health and early death among residents of Glasgow, Scotland, compared to other similar cities. This phenomenon is attributed to various factors, including socioeconomic status, lifestyle choices, and historical issues like industrial decline. Despite advancements in healthcare, these underlying social determinants contribute to poorer health outcomes. The term highlights how a city's social and economic environment can profoundly impact the well-being of its inhabitants, emphasizing the need for comprehensive public health strategies to address these disparities.