Background of the Study
Socio-economic disparities significantly influence various aspects of public health, including life expectancy. Life expectancy is a critical indicator of a population's overall health, and it is influenced by a combination of factors such as access to healthcare, education, income levels, and social determinants of health (Adamu & Bello, 2024). In Nigeria, regions with higher levels of poverty, inadequate healthcare services, and limited access to essential resources tend to have lower life expectancy rates compared to more affluent areas (Okeke & Nwachukwu, 2023). These disparities are particularly evident in the northern states of Nigeria, including Nasarawa State, where rural areas often face significant socio-economic challenges.
Nasarawa State, located in the central region of Nigeria, is characterized by its diverse socio-economic conditions. While urban areas in the state have better access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, rural areas are often disadvantaged. In these rural settings, poverty, poor healthcare infrastructure, limited access to clean water, and inadequate sanitation significantly affect life expectancy (Ibrahim et al., 2025). Additionally, social factors such as gender inequality and cultural practices can exacerbate these disparities, particularly affecting women and children. Understanding how socio-economic factors influence life expectancy in Nasarawa State is crucial for addressing health inequities and developing targeted interventions to improve the quality of life for residents.
The relationship between socio-economic factors and life expectancy is well-established in the literature. However, there is a need for more localized studies that focus on specific regions like Nasarawa State, where socio-economic disparities may be particularly pronounced. By examining these disparities, this study aims to provide insights into how socio-economic factors contribute to life expectancy in Nasarawa State and offer recommendations for improving public health outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
In Nasarawa State, socio-economic disparities between urban and rural areas have led to significant differences in life expectancy. The rural population faces greater challenges related to poverty, inadequate healthcare, poor nutrition, and limited access to education, all of which contribute to lower life expectancy rates. While life expectancy in urban areas may align with national averages, rural communities continue to experience higher mortality rates due to preventable diseases and poor living conditions (Olatunji & Ismail, 2024).
Despite the growing recognition of the importance of socio-economic factors in shaping health outcomes, there is limited research on how these disparities specifically affect life expectancy in Nasarawa State. Without understanding the specific socio-economic factors that contribute to life expectancy disparities in this region, policymakers and health practitioners are unable to design effective interventions that can reduce these disparities. Therefore, this study seeks to explore the extent of socio-economic disparities in Nasarawa State and their impact on life expectancy, with the aim of providing evidence-based recommendations for improving health outcomes across the state.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on comparing life expectancy across urban and rural areas in Nasarawa State, examining the socio-economic factors contributing to any disparities. Data will be collected through surveys, health records, and government reports. However, the study may be limited by the availability and accuracy of life expectancy data, as well as the difficulty of controlling for all socio-economic factors that could influence life expectancy. Additionally, the study will not focus on specific diseases or health conditions but will examine broader socio-economic determinants.
Definitions of Terms
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